Malacañang on Friday expressed its condolences to the family of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Catalina Cabral, who died after allegedly falling from a cliff along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet, on Thursday night.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro conveyed the Palace’s sympathy during a press briefing, saying the government is mourning Cabral’s passing and extending support to her loved ones.

“Nakikiramay po tayo sa pamilya na naiwan po ni former Usec. Catalina Cabral. At nakakalungkot po ang nangyari pero ‘yun po, muli nakikiramay po tayo,” Castro said during a press briefing. 

Castro added that Malacañang is respecting the privacy of Cabral’s family amid the tragic incident.

Addressing questions about Cabral’s previous involvement in an investigation related to alleged irregularities in DPWH flood control projects, Castro clarified that no charges had been filed against the former official.

“Sa ngayon po ay wala pong kaso… Nasa kamay na po iyan ng mga mag-iimbestiga. So, sa ngayon po, wala pong kinakaharap na kaso si Usec. Cabral,” she said.

Castro further stressed that the Palace has not issued any directive regarding the matter and will allow authorities to carry out their work.

“Ginagalang po natin muna pansamantala ang pribadong buhay at ang pamilya po ni Usec. Cabral. Sa ngayon wala pong pinag-uutos ang Pangulo at muli walang kaso. At kung mayroon man pag-iimbestiga na gagawin, bahala na po, nasa kamay na po ito ng mga investigating bodies,” she added.

The Palace Press Officer said law enforcement authorities are currently handling the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Cabral’s death.