Benguet police chief reinstated after being cleared in Cabral death probe
LA TRINIDAD, Philippines — Axed Benguet police chief Lt. Col. Lambert Suerte has taken back his post after the Philippine National Police (PNP) cleared him of any command responsibility in the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.
A regional internal review found no wrongdoing on Suerte’s part, adding that liability lies with the Tuba, Benguet police chief, who will face administrative charges, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño told journalists.
Interior chief Jonvic Remulla earlier ordered the relief of both Suerte and Tuba Police Chief Maj. Peter Camsol Jr. over alleged early lapses in evidence handling.
Suerte was formally relieved on Dec. 22, 2025 and went on medical leave during the probe.
The review was ordered after public criticism of the initial police response, especially on evidence preservation and supervision at the town level.
Cabral was found dead in a ravine along Kennon Road on December 18, 2025.
Police also said there was no foul play based on forensic results, CCTV footage, and witness accounts, but added that any procedural lapses will be addressed at the municipal level.
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