The First Lady of the Philippines is accused of being involved in a drug-related death case involving her staff, and a senator has called for clarification.

First Lady of the Philippines Involved in Drug-Related Death Case of Staff Member! Senator Imee Demands Explanation from the Presidential Office!

Senator Imee Marcos urged the presidential office to clarify the circumstances related to the death of Paul Tantoco, an heir to the Rashtan Retail Empire, who died from a cocaine overdose, including whether the First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos was involved.

Reports indicate that Paul Tantoco's death on March 8 in Los Angeles was due to an accidental drug overdose, and the Los Angeles County Coroner recently confirmed that the 44-year-old Tantoco died from cocaine use.

In a statement, Imee said: "Given the seriousness of these allegations and the undeniable public interest in this matter, the royal family needs to issue a comprehensive report on this incident."

Imee pointed out that reports suggest Tantoco was clearly a member of the First Lady's entourage at the time, when the First Lady was promoting the Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles.

"More concerning is the claim circulating online that the First Lady may have had personal knowledge of Tantoco's death, with some alleging that she was present shortly before, during, or shortly after the incident."

"I also call for clarification on the First Lady's whereabouts at the relevant time, which may be reflected in official records such as the autopsy report, to dispel further speculation."

The acting secretary of the Presidential Communications Office, Dave Gomez, refused to comment on Imee's remarks, calling it a private matter.

Tantoco's death was ruled an accident, primarily due to "cocaine effects."

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1837657676703756/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.