Senator Imee Marcos has urged Malacañang to break its silence on the alleged connection between First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and the death of Paolo “Paowee” Tantoco, an executive of Rustan Commercial Corporation who died in March 2025 from cocaine use while in Los Angeles.
In a statement released Monday, the senator described as “troubling” the online reports suggesting that her sister-in-law may have been present during or around the time of Tantoco’s death, which occurred in a hotel room at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 8—just a day after the Manila International Film Festival concluded in Los Angeles.
“Some reports further suggest that Mr. Tantoco was ‘apparently’ part of the entourage of the First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos who was in Los Angeles at that time to promote the Manila International Film Festival,” Senator Marcos stated.
She noted that speculation has only intensified, with unverified claims alleging that the First Lady had personal knowledge of what happened, possibly being at the scene shortly before, during, or immediately after Tantoco’s passing.
Given the gravity of the allegations, the senator called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration to release an official and detailed account.
“Given the gravity of these allegations and the matter’s undeniable public interest, I urge Malacañang to issue a comprehensive report on the circumstances of Mr. Tantoco’s death, including any involvement—direct or indirect—of the First Lady or other Philippine government officials,” she said.
She also urged for transparency regarding the First Lady’s whereabouts at the time, adding that official records like the Medical Examiner’s Report should be reviewed to help dispel further speculation.
The LA County Medical Examiner, in a report released over the weekend, confirmed that Tantoco died due to the effects of cocaine, compounded by probable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. His death was ruled accidental. He was 44.
