Palace Denies “Fake News” ‍on First⁣ Lady’s Alleged Involvement in Tantoco Death

MANILA,⁢ Philippines – Presidential Communications Undersecretary Patricia Evangelista Castro has vehemently refuted‌ claims circulating ⁢on social media, ‍labeling a police report‍ concerning ⁣the death of businessman Bienvenido‌ Tantoco III as a “big lie” and ‌a fabrication. Castro ⁢asserted that specific details were ⁤added to the original document to mislead the public.

First Lady’s Security Detail​ Clarified

Castro clarified that the First Lady,who was ‌in Los​ Angeles at the time of Tantoco’s death,was not only ⁢accompanied by the ​Presidential Security Group but also by⁢ security personnel provided by the U.S. government.this statement aims to counter allegations that her security detail was somehow compromised or involved in the incident.

Debunking Speculation on Tantoco’s Location

“She did not stay ‍at⁣ the hotel​ where Mr.Tantoco was,” Castro stated,directly addressing rumors. She further⁣ detailed the First Lady’s schedule, highlighting a concert for ⁣the ⁢Filipino community on March 8 that spanned from the afternoon until the evening.‌ “So⁤ how can these obstructionists and fake news peddlers ⁢make claims based⁤ on the people they say they saw in the ⁣area?” Castro questioned the credibility of the‌ accusers.

First lady Unfazed by Allegations

When asked about the First Lady’s reaction to the accusations, Castro assured the public that she is “doing well and was not worried over⁣ the allegations because she knows the⁣ truth.” Castro emphasized the management’s focus on the president’s work and responsibilities, suggesting that the controversy is ‍a distraction.

Confidence in Truth and Records

“She’s okay, as ⁣she knows the truth.​ Honestly, she ⁢did not want this issue to blow up any further because this administration‍ is focused on showing what the president is doing,⁤ what his ​responsibilities are, and⁢ how we work for the people,” Castro reiterated. She added, “The First ‍Lady ‍has no reason to worry because she knows the truth, ⁣and the records will speak for themselves. so those who should be concerned are the ones ‌destroying them because they will not be‍ able to bring down this administration using fake news.”

Legal Action Under Consideration

Castro also revealed that the possibility of filing a case against those spreading “fake news” about the First Lady ⁣is currently being studied.

Presidential Adviser Dismisses Senator’s Call

Larry Gadon, Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation, also weighed in, dismissing ⁤senator Risa​ Hontiveros’ call for the Palace to shed light on ⁤Tantoco’s death and any potential⁢ involvement of the first Lady. ​Gadon found it “illogical” for Malacañang to submit a report on the matter.

“Illogical” to Involve Malacañang

“The First Lady was not his (Tantoco’s) nanny, not a security guard who​ would secure him or even others around him,” Gadon stated, questioning the basis‌ of‌ the allegations. He further asserted that the philippines coudl not⁤ investigate the incident, ⁤as the “LA police will allow it since it was a domestic crime.” ⁣Gadon advised the senator to ⁢focus ​on other issues, such⁣ as the case of missing “sabungeros” (cockfighting enthusiasts).

Tantoco’s Death Confirmed as Cocaine‍ Overdose

The ​Los Angeles County ​medical Examiner’s office confirmed in July that Tantoco,44,the administrator of the Rustan’s department store chain,died from cocaine use.

senator’s Demand for Transparency

Senator Hontiveros had previously called for a comprehensive report from the Palace, ​citing the “gravity⁤ of these allegations and the matter’s undeniable public interest.” She pointed to reports suggesting ⁢Tantoco was part of the First ‍Lady’s entourage during her visit to Los ⁢Angeles to promote the Manila international Film ​Festival.

Clarification of First Lady’s Whereabouts Sought

“I also call for the clarification ​of ‍the ​First Lady’s whereabouts at the relevant time, as might potentially be reflected in official records such as the‍ Medical Examiner’s Report, to dispel further speculation,” the senator had‌ stated.