Cabral files deemed public

The so-called Cabral files have become an increasingly troubling and alarming topic, as discussions appear to rely heavily on technicalities and conspiracy theories, former Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) national president and constitutional law expert Domingo Egon Cayosa said.

In a radio interview, Cayosa said that, in reality, the Cabral files are public documents owned by the Republic of the Philippines.

“They pertain to the use of public funds, and under the Constitution, the people have the right, under the transparency provision, to know their contents,” he said in Filipino.

Cayosa added that the matter should not be handled by Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste alone. He stressed the need for a thorough investigation, including scrutiny of the agenda behind the entire Cabral files controversy.

He also said the documents must be authenticated by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as the files originated from the agency.

Questioning the functionality of the investigating body, Cayosa said, “How can a three-member commission function when only one member remains? Thus, not only from a legal standpoint, but also for practical reasons, the remaining retired Supreme Court justice is effectively rendered useless. Delay breeds corruption.”