A developing investigation has revealed new details surrounding the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, who died after allegedly falling into a ravine along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet, on the evening of December 18, 2025.
According to a report discussed in an interview on DZMM Teleradyo, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that investigators discovered the Ion Hotel, where Cabral reportedly stayed before the incident, was owned by her until 2025, before it was sold within the same year.
“Nakita kasi namin [na] ‘yong Ion Hotel kung saan siya tumira ay pag-aari ni Usec. Cabral hanggang 2025,” Remulla said during the interview on Saturday, December 20. He added, “Pero binenta niya noong 2025 sa isang nagngangalang ‘Eric Yap.’”
Remulla noted that findings point to an apparent business relationship between Cabral and Yap. “It is evident na may relasyon sila ni Eric Yap, business wise,” he said. He further explained that the rock netting project in Tuba, Benguet allegedly passed through Cabral’s office during her tenure, with Yap identified as both the supplier and contractor.
“It is evident na ‘yong paglagi ng mga rock netting na ‘yon sa ay dumaan sa opisina ni Usec. Cabral,” Remulla stated. “It is evident na ang supplier at contractor ng rock netting ay si Eric Yap. So, somehow, there is a relationship.”
Meanwhile, Ion Hotel released a public statement declining to confirm or deny Cabral’s stay, citing the Data Privacy Act of 2012. “In strict compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, lon Hotel is unable to confirm, deny, or disclose any information relating to guest records,” the management said, adding that it is cooperating fully with authorities through proper legal channels.
Authorities also confirmed the results of the autopsy conducted by the Philippine National Police on December 20, after the family granted consent. The examination revealed that Cabral died of “blunt traumatic injury consistent with a fall.” Her husband, Cesar Cabral, was present during the procedure after initially declining an autopsy, believing the incident was accidental.
Remulla confirmed the findings, stating, “The initial reports show that, with all certainty, she died of blunt force trauma,” noting multiple injuries. He also said, “Wala kami nakitang signs of struggle sa kotse,” adding that there are currently no indications of foul play.
Cordillera police have confirmed the identity of the body recovered along Kennon Road, as investigations continue.