Manila: Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson on Monday emphasized that there is an appropriate time and place for releasing documents allegedly shared by the late former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. This statement comes as investigations into questionable infrastructure projects persist.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson expressed his support for efforts to secure documents that may assist ongoing investigations. These efforts reportedly include those undertaken by Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste. However, Lacson highlighted the importance of following due process and maintaining sensitivity when releasing such information.

Lacson remarked, "I'd rather give first the late Undersecretary Cabral's family some space to grieve and mourn their loss. Matters of disclosing whatever files she shared before her death can still be done by concerned authorities at the proper time and venue," as stated in a news release.

Representative Leviste previously mentioned that Cabral had provided him with files containing information on alleged budget insertions within the DPWH, reportedly under the instruction of DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon.

While Lacson stated he is not privy to the contents of the documents obtained by Leviste, he welcomed initiatives aimed at uncovering corruption related to questionable infrastructure projects. He has consistently directed his staff to compile and hand over all relevant documents, whether from Cabral or other sources, to the appropriate investigating bodies. These bodies include the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Department of Justice.

Lacson highlighted that such documents, including those referenced in his privilege speeches and Senate Blue Ribbon Committee proceedings regarding alleged flood control anomalies, have long been shared with authorities to aid ongoing investigations.