Digital Pinoys seeks probe on alleged DPWH file access

A network of digital advocates is calling for an investigation into allegations that Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) documents and files were accessed without authorization.

Digital Pinoys National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo said reports about the alleged unauthorized copying and removal of government documents by Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste from the office of former DPWH Undersecretary Catalina Cabral raise concerns beyond individual conduct.

Gustilo said the issue touches on the protection of government data, the integrity of official records, and the safeguards meant to secure public systems and information.

“Government files and digital systems exist within a framework of custody, authorization, and chain of accountability. Regardless of intent, bypassing these safeguards risks compromising data integrity, enabling selective disclosure, and weakening public trust in institutions. Transparency should not be advanced through self-help or unilateral action,” Gustilo said.

Gustilo added that anti-corruption efforts should reinforce institutions and processes rather than undermine them.

“Legitimate whistleblowing and oversight mechanisms exist precisely to ensure that evidence remains credible, protected, and usable for genuine accountability. If the manner of acquisition and the chain of custody compromise the integrity of the information obtained, such evidence risks becoming unusable in legal proceedings,” he added.

He reiterated Digital Pinoys’ position that transparency and accountability must be pursued within the bounds of law, due process, and sound digital governance.

“Upholding the rule of law is not an obstacle to transparency—it is its foundation. It must be upheld at all times.”

In the Philippines, government agencies typically rely on records management rules and cybersecurity protocols to ensure documents remain intact, traceable, and admissible when used in audits, investigations, or court proceedings, making the question of authorization and chain of custody central to any inquiry into alleged document handling.