Proper Time, Proper Venue: Lacson Urges Due Process in Release of Cabral Documents
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has taken a measured stand amid rising public pressure over documents allegedly shared by the late former DPWH undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.
Lacson stressed that while the pursuit of truth is essential, the disclosure of sensitive files must follow due process and be handled by the proper authorities — at the proper time and in the proper venue.
“There is a proper time and venue for disclosure,” Lacson said, emphasizing both respect for the grieving family and the integrity of ongoing investigations.
⚖️ Due Process Over Drama
Lacson welcomed efforts to secure and preserve documents that could aid investigations into anomalous infrastructure projects. However, he cautioned against public releases that could:
Compromise investigations
Prejudge individuals
Violate legal procedures
He clarified that any files in his possession — whether sourced from Cabral or elsewhere — have been turned over to proper investigating bodies, including the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice.
🧭 Respect for Grief, Respect for Law
Lacson also underscored a human consideration often lost in public debate:
the need to give Cabral’s family space to grieve.
Truth-seeking, he implied, does not require haste that tramples dignity or undermines credibility.
🦅 AGILA TAKE
Hindi lahat ng katotohanan
dapat isinigaw agad.
Ang hustisya,
may tamang oras at tamang lugar.
📖 Biblical Reflection
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
— Ecclesiastes 3:1
Justice delayed can be dangerous —
but justice rushed can be reckless.
🧠 Why This Matters
In moments of national tension, institutions are tested not only by what they reveal — but how they reveal it.
Lacson’s position reinforces a principle often ignored:
👉 Accountability is strongest when it is careful, lawful, and humane.
Truth pursued the right way endures.
Truth weaponized collapses.
