The Philippine National Police Forensic Group (PNP-FG) has publicly shared the findings of the medico-legal autopsy performed on the remains of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. The report indicates that her death resulted from “blunt traumatic injuries to the head, trunk, and left upper and lower extremities due to a fall from height.”
The autopsy revealed that Cabral suffered numerous injuries, including fractures in her left femur, ankle, tibia, and fibula, alongside a dislocated hip joint. According to the PNP-FG, the estimated time of death was between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on December 18, 2025, coinciding with the moment she was discovered deceased along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet.
Additionally, the PNP Forensic Group confirmed that Cabral had tested positive for Citalopram, an antidepressant. The police highlighted that one of the known side effects of this medication is “suicidal behavior,” which is now a key element in the ongoing investigation into her death.
Furthermore, the forensic team found that the postmortem fingerprints from Cabral’s body matched with the computer-generated fingerprints stored at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), confirming her identity unequivocally.
The investigation remains ongoing, and with the information arising from the autopsy, authorities are determined to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Cabral’s tragic death. As the PNP continues its work, there is hope that the thorough examination will bring clarity to her family and the public while ensuring accountability for any factors that may have contributed to this unfortunate event.