Senator imee Marcos Demands Clarity on RustanS heir’s Cocaine Overdose Death, Questions First Lady’s Alleged Involvement
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Imee Marcos has called on Malacañang to provide a comprehensive report detailing the circumstances surrounding the death of Paolo Tantoco, heir to the Rustan’s retail empire, who died from a cocaine overdose in Los Angeles on March 8.The senator specifically requested clarification on any potential involvement of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos.
The call comes in the wake of reports confirming Tantoco’s death was attributed to an accidental drug overdose.The LA County Medical Examiner officially ruled in July that the 44-year-old administrator of the prominent department store chain succumbed to cocaine use.Senator Marcos, sister of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., emphasized the public’s right to know, stating, “given the gravity of these allegations and the matter’s undeniable public interest,” a detailed report is necessary.She highlighted circulating reports suggesting Tantoco was part of the First Lady’s entourage during her visit to Los Angeles to promote the Manila International Film Festival.
“More troubling are claims circulating online that the First Lady may have personal knowledge of the circumstances surrounding Mr. Tantoco’s death – with some alleging that she was present at the scene either shortly before, during, or immediately after the incident,” Senator Marcos stated. She further urged for the clarification of the First Lady’s whereabouts at the time of the incident, as potentially reflected in official records like the Medical Examiner’s Report, to “dispel further speculation.”
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez, when approached for comment on the senator’s remarks, declined to issue a statement, characterizing the matter as “a private matter.”
The LA medical examiner’s report identified “cocaine effects” as the primary cause of Tantoco’s accidental death. The report also noted “probable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease,” a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries, as a significant contributing factor.