Updated: December 20, 2025
Maria Catalina Cabral, often known as Cathy Cabral, was a prominent figure in Philippine public service. As a former Undersecretary at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), she made headlines for her groundbreaking career. But many people are curious about her private side, especially Maria Catalina Cabral husband. In this post, we’ll explore her family life, marriage, and more, based on the latest available information.
Cabral was known for keeping her personal matters private, focusing public attention on her professional achievements. Despite this, details about her husband and family have emerged through recent news reports.
Table of Contents
Who Is Maria Catalina Cabral?
Maria Catalina E. Cabral, Ph.D., was born on May 23, 1962, in Manila, Philippines. She dedicated over 40 years to public service, rising from a rank-and-file position to become one of the highest-ranking women in the DPWH.
- She earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of the East in 1984.
- Advanced degrees included Master’s in Business Administration, Ph.D. in Business Management, Ph.D. in Public Administration, and later in Urban and Regional Planning.
- She was a trailblazer, becoming the first female president of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers and national president of the Road Engineering Association of the Philippines.
Cabral was celebrated as a “model for women in infrastructure” in a male-dominated field. Her career spanned multiple administrations, and she played key roles in planning and public-private partnerships.
Maria Catalina Cabral Husband and Family Life
Maria Catalina Cabral was married to Cesar Cabral. Recent reports from credible Philippine news outlets, including GMA News and PhilNews, confirm that her husband, Cesar, along with their children, identified her body following the tragic incident in Benguet.
While Cabral rarely spoke publicly about her personal life, it’s clear she had a family that included children. Her husband Cesar has been quoted expressing grief and insisting the family believes her death was accidental, with no foul play involved.
Some unverified rumors suggested estrangement, but official statements highlight Cesar as her spouse who was directly involved in family matters during the recent events.
Here’s a quick overview in table format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maria Catalina E. Cabral, Ph.D. |
| Birth Date | May 23, 1962 |
| Husband | Cesar Cabral |
| Children | Yes (number not publicly specified) |
| Marital Status (at time of passing) | Married |
| Family Privacy | Highly valued; rarely discussed publicly |
Her Remarkable Career Highlights
Cabral’s professional journey was inspiring:
- Started as a working student at DPWH and climbed the ranks.
- Served as Undersecretary for Planning and PPP.
- Recognized with awards like the GADtimpala from the Philippine Commission on Women.
- Registered ASEAN and APEC Engineer; Honorary Fellow of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organizations.
She was retained across administrations, showcasing her expertise and dedication to infrastructure development in the Philippines.
Recent Events and Legacy
Tragically, Maria Catalina Cabral passed away on December 19, 2025, after being found near the Bued River along Kennon Road in Benguet. Authorities are investigating the circumstances, described initially as an alleged fall. Her family, led by husband Cesar, maintains it was an accident.
The DPWH issued a statement mourning her loss and urging respect for the family’s privacy. Many in the engineering and public service communities remember her as a dedicated professional who broke barriers for women.
Conclusion
Maria Catalina Cabral’s life was defined by quiet strength, professional excellence, and a commitment to family privacy. Her husband, Cesar Cabral, and their children were her closest supporters, even as she navigated a high-profile career and recent challenges.
Though her story ended suddenly, Cabral’s contributions to Philippine infrastructure will endure. She leaves behind a legacy of empowerment, hard work, and resilience. Our thoughts are with Cesar Cabral and the entire family during this difficult time.
If you’re searching for Maria Catalina Cabral husband or details about her personal life, this reflects the most accurate and respectful information available as of December 20, 2025. Rest in peace, Usec. Cathy Cabral.