SEN. Rodante Marcoleta has cautioned against politicizing the so-called “Cabral files,” saying the documents must by legal and technically evaluated to ensure their integrity before they can be used in investigations of corruption in government flood control projects. Speaking on a radio program Friday, Marcoleta said the files that were retrieved from the electronic devices of the late former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, should be treated with care and sobriety. “The saddest part is that her death is now being politicized,” Marcoleta said. “When a person dies, she can no longer speak for herself. What should be discussed now is how the documents left behind, whether on a cellphone or a computer, can be validated in terms of integrity and authenticity.” He stressed that without proper validation, the files could do more harm than good. He warned that unverified or manipulated data could undermine efforts to identify those allegedly responsible for large-scale irregularities in flood control projects, an issue that has drawn scrutiny from the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. “If the integrity of the data is not put in order, we gain nothing,” Marcoleta said. “Many will lose, especially citizens who are looking for answers on who the real masterminds are.” He underscored that endless public debate over the files, without clarity on their authenticity, risks turning the issue into speculation and gossip. He proposed that safeguards to prevent the insertion of false or misleading information that could wrongly implicate or shield individuals. He also said Cabral’s death could clear her of criminal liability, but civil liability may still be pursued. “Criminal cases are personal,” said Marcoleta. “But if it is proven that certain assets were obtained through anomalous projects, the civil aspect remains and can still be recovered by the government.” Marcoleta added that while Cabral can no longer be prosecuted, any evidence that leads investigators to other responsible parties may still be relevant — provided the files are authenticated and lawfully processed. He appealed for restraint, saying the situation calls for calm and respect rather than political maneuvering. “We are not politicizing her files,” he said. “There has to be peace regarding her situation. If the files are to be used, they must be used prudently, with their integrity intact, so they can truly help uncover the real roots of corruption.” He warned that releasing or circulating unverified copies could spark conflicts and confusion, rather than accountability. “Let’s put things in order first,” Marcoleta said. “Only then can the files have a proper place and purpose in the investigation.”