A network of digital advocates is pushing for an investigation into the alleged unauthorized access to documents and files from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Digital Pinoys National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo said recent reports regarding the alleged unauthorized copying and removal of government documents by Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste from the office of former DPWH Undersecretary Catalina Cabral raise serious concerns—not only about individual conduct, but about the protection of government data, the integrity of official records, and the systems meant to safeguard them.
“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 further emphasized that the fight against corruption must strengthen institutions, not erode 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.
Gustilo reiterated Digital Pinoys’ long-standing position that transparency and accountability must always 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.”
