Imee to Palace: FL’s Role in Rustan’s Heir Death
Senator Calls for Palace Report on Rustan’s Administrator’s Death amid Drug Overdose Allegations
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Imee Marcos has called on the Presidential Palace to issue a comprehensive report regarding the death of Paolo Tantoco, administrator of the department store chain Rustan’s. The senator’s demand comes amid reports that Tantoco’s death on March 8 in Los Angeles (LA) was caused by an accidental drug overdose, specifically cocaine use.
Unpacking the Allegations and Public Interest
The LA County Medical Examiner confirmed in July that Tantoco, 44, died from cocaine use. In a statement, Senator Marcos, who is also the sister of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., emphasized the need for openness given the “gravity of these allegations and the matter’s undeniable public interest.”
First Lady’s Alleged Connection and Calls for Clarification
Senator Marcos highlighted circulating online claims suggesting that Tantoco was “apparently” part of the entourage of the first Lady, who was in LA at the time 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 – wiht some alleging that she was present at the scene either shortly before, during, or promptly after the incident,” Senator Marcos stated.
She further urged for clarification on the first Lady’s whereabouts during the relevant period, as perhaps reflected in official records like the Medical Examiner’s Report, to “dispel further speculation.”
Official Response and Ruling on Tantoco’s Death
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez declined to comment on the senator’s remarks, characterizing the matter as “a private matter.”
The death of Paolo Tantoco was officially ruled accidental, with “cocaine effects” cited as the primary cause. The LA medical examiner also noted “probable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease,” or plaque buildup in the arteries, as a significant contributing condition.