MANILA — Malacañang has slammed as “fake” the purported police report linking First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos to the death of businessman Paolo Tantoco, calling it a politically motivated attack meant to smear the President’s family.
Presidential Communications Office’s (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro condemned the circulating document as fabricated, saying it was a shameful attempt to exploit a private tragedy for political gain.
“Nakakalungkot dahil ‘yung pribadong taong nagluluksa ay nadadamay dahil sa pamumulitika,” said Castro. “Nakakahiya ang kanilang ginagawa, nakakahiya dahil gumawa sila ng pekeng police report.”
The alleged report, which was based on findings from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, stated that Tantoco died from the effects of cocaine, with heart disease listed as a contributing factor. He was found dead at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on March 8, 2025 — just a day after the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) tribute gala attended by the First Lady at the same venue.
Tantoco, a scion of the prominent family behind luxury retail chain Rustan’s, was married to Dina Arroyo-Tantoco, Deputy Social Secretary to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The controversy deepened after Sen. Imee Marcos, sister of the President, urged Malacañang to clarify the First Lady’s possible connection to the incident.
“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,” Imee said in a statement.
She also called on the Palace to disclose Araneta-Marcos’ whereabouts at the time, citing persistent speculation and reports that Tantoco was part of the First Lady’s official entourage to the MIFF.
“I also call for the clarification of the First Lady’s whereabouts at the relevant time, as may be reflected in official records such as the Medical Examiner’s Report, to dispel further speculation,” she added.
The Palace has not responded to Sen. Imee Marcos’ appeal for a comprehensive report as of this writing./PN
