Manila: The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has ordered former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina 'Cathy' Cabral to appear before its inquiry into alleged budget insertions, despite her recent resignation from government service. This was announced by Committee chair Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson following Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon's disclosure that he had accepted Cabral's courtesy resignation on September 14.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cabral had informed the committee that she would not be attending the hearing following her resignation. Dizon noted that even though Cabral is now a private citizen, she is still required to attend if the committee mandates her presence. Senator Rodante Marcoleta emphasized that Cabral's resignation does not exempt her from accountability, citing the need to address personal questions and referencing a text message to Senate President Vicente Sotto III as evidence of her involvement.

Senator Lacson agreed with Marcoleta and put the matter to a vote, resulting in the decision to issue a subpoena to Cabral. This motion was seconded by Senator Erwin Tulfo, leading to the official order for her appearance. Despite Cabral's departure from the DPWH, Secretary Dizon assured the committee that internal investigations would continue to determine accountability for the alleged budget insertions.

Cabral's actions came under scrutiny after Senator Lacson alleged she attempted to influence the proposed 2026 national budget by contacting the staff of Senate President Sotto shortly after the May 2025 elections. Lacson raised concerns about whether other lawmakers might have been similarly approached.