Philippine police have identified the driver of former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral as a person of interest in the investigation into her death in Benguet, authorities said, based on information reported by the television program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS).
According to the Philippine National Police, the driver — identified as Cardo Hernandez — is being closely examined after investigators found his actions inconsistent with what they described as normal conduct under the circumstances.
Police said it raised suspicion that Cabral was allegedly left in a remote area, while her bag and mobile phone were reportedly found inside the vehicle, a detail authorities say warrants further scrutiny.
Cabral was confirmed dead in the early hours of December 19 after authorities said she apparently fell into a ravine along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet. Her body was discovered several meters below the roadway.
Authorities stressed that the details were initially reported by KMJS and that identifying a person of interest does not imply guilt. Investigators said the case remains under active investigation as they continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding Cabral’s death.
