DECEMBER 29, 2025 — Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano disclosed that Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste failed to hand over the full set of the so-called “Cabral files,” despite publicly claiming he had already submitted them. The files, allegedly provided by late Public Works Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, are said to implicate top officials in the controversial 2025 infrastructure budget insertions.

Clavano, in a video statement, contradicted Leviste’s assertion that the Ombudsman had already received the complete documents. 

“During this engagement, Congressman Leviste presented only limited portions of the list, in fairness, to address specific inquiries. He did not present the entire set of files he claimed to possess, even when asked to do so,” Clavano said.

The revelation raises questions about transparency in the handling of the P3.5-trillion Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget. Leviste, however, insists he is not the sole custodian of the files, pointing out that the DPWH, the Ombudsman, and other officials also have copies. He urged Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to release the documents to dispel suspicions of a cover-up.

“My colleagues in Congress asked me not to make a privilege speech about this, so perhaps they are also appealing to Sec. Vince now. Sec. Vince told me in September that he would make the data public, so I hope no one pressures him to hide the truth. I hope Sec. Vince will publish how much was allocable to each politician and who proposed each project,” Leviste said in Filipino. “Let the chips fall where they may.” 

He added, “The public needs to know where the P3.5 trillion in the DPWH was spent. It is disheartening that instead of releasing it, it seems to be covered up. I hope the DPWH and Sec. Vince will release it, so there are no questions. I also have a copy, so I can corroborate whether the release is complete and that no names were removed.”

If the files truly contain names of politicians tied to questionable allocations, what does withholding them mean for accountability? Should the DPWH take the lead in publishing the records, or does the Ombudsman bear the responsibility of full disclosure? And why did Leviste not release the entire list in the first place?

For ordinary Filipinos, the unanswered question remains: What are they hiding and who really benefited from the trillions poured into public works?

Something smells fishy in the pursuit to hold the “big fish” accountable.

(Image: YouTube)