PNP coordinating with ombudsman on ‘Cabral files’

MANILA, Philippines — The Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) of the Philippine National Police is ready to conduct a forensic examination on the computers from the office of former public works undersecretary for planning Maria Catalina Cabral, in coordination with the Office of the Ombudsman.

“There is already advance information on what kind of assistance the ombudsman needs (from the ACG),” PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said over radio dzRH.

The ombudsman has yet to turn over computers to the ACG for examination.

Tuaño said the ACG is capable of retrieving files even if these were deleted from computers and other gadgets.

He cited the case of malicious posts, which were removed by netizens on their social media accounts but were recovered by cybercrime investigators.

Once the computers are turned over, Tuaño said the ACG will immediately starts its forensic investigation.

Authentication

Meanwhile, Batangas 1st district Rep. Leandro Leviste vehemently denied allegations that he illegally obtained the Cabral files from the Department of Public Works and Highways, even as he thanked the DPWH for confirming the authenticity of the files given to him.

“The timing of the DPWH saying this now about an event months ago is suspect, and only raises questions on why DPWH doesn’t just release all the files if there’s nothing to hide,” Leviste said in a statement.

Leviste said he understood that many politicians and contractors under investigation may be upset that he is sharing evidence that can aid in investigations.

“And I ask that the investigators disclose their connections with people under investigation, given my published partial findings on their links to contractors,” he added. — Jose Rodel Clapano, Neil Jayson Servallos