Leviste Faces Intense Senate Scrutiny Over Acquisition of Cabral Documents
Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste underwent rigorous examination during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, where he appeared as a resource person to address questions regarding his possession of the controversial "Cabral files." The lawmaker reiterated his stance that these documents are public records, asserting that he obtained them with the authorization of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.
Detailed Account of File Acquisition and Authentication Challenges
Leviste confirmed that he received both hard and soft copies of the files. He elaborated that the soft copy was transferred directly to his USB drive from a computer in the planning services office, while former DPWH Undersecretary Catalina Cabral was present during the process. This explanation aimed to clarify the origins of the documents, which have sparked significant political interest.
During the hearing, Senator Bam Aquino directed inquiries toward DPWH officials concerning the authentication of the files held by Leviste. In response, DPWH Undersecretary Ricardo Bernabe III disclosed that the computer in question had been sealed to preserve its integrity and prevent tampering. He noted that the device was subpoenaed in December 2025 and subsequently turned over to the Office of the Ombudsman for further investigation.
Senator Aquino further probed whether only the Ombudsman could verify the files, given that the computer is now under their custody. DPWH officials concurred with this assessment, highlighting the legal complexities involved in authenticating the documents outside of official channels.
Broader Implications and Additional Holders of the Files
Leviste also identified two other groups in possession of identical soft copies of the Cabral files. One of these copies is reportedly held by the office of committee chairman Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson, which was allegedly provided by Cabral's lawyer. This revelation underscores the widespread circulation of the documents within political circles.
This hearing marked Leviste's first appearance at a Senate flood control inquiry in several weeks, following his initial statements about the Cabral files. Senator Lacson expressed gratitude for Leviste's participation, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the proceedings.
The eighth hearing of the committee focused extensively on examining the documents left by the late former Undersecretary Catalina Cabral. These files are purported to contain names of officials and lawmakers involved in budget insertions for various projects under the National Expenditure Program, raising concerns about fiscal accountability and governance.
The probe continues to unravel the intricacies of how sensitive government documents are accessed and disseminated, with implications for public trust and administrative oversight.
