Death of Filipino Businessman After LA Film Festival Prompts Scrutiny of Philippine Delegation

Netizens are seeking a statement from Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero regarding the untimely death of Filipino businessman Juan Paolo Tantoco in Los Angeles, California. Tantoco’s death occurred shortly after attending the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), where Escudero and other high-ranking Philippine officials were also present.

Escudero was seen with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos during the MIFF tribute gala held in Los Angeles. According to reports, Tantoco was part of their group and was last seen alive during the event. He was later found dead on March 7 at 9876 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills, California—just hours after the conclusion of the MIFF gala.

Joining Escudero and the First Lady at the MIFF were other Philippine government officials, including Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Rolando Artes, who also serves as the head of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). The delegation was in the United States to promote Philippine cinema and strengthen cultural ties through the MIFF, which aims to showcase Filipino films on an international stage.

However, the shocking death of Tantoco has since overshadowed the event, raising questions and concerns among the Filipino community, both in the Philippines and abroad. Many are now urging those who were in close contact with Tantoco during the trip to issue statements and fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

On Saturday, the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office released its findings, stating that Tantoco’s death was caused by the effects of cocaine and probable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. While the coroner’s report suggests a drug-related death complicated by a heart condition, the full circumstances remain unclear.

The case remains open, and investigators continue to look into the events leading to Tantoco’s death. Authorities are conducting interviews, examining forensic evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage to determine whether foul play was involved or if the death was purely accidental.

Despite growing public interest and speculation, Senate President Escudero has not yet made any public comment. Similarly, the Office of the First Lady, Liza Araneta-Marcos, has remained silent. This lack of official response has drawn criticism from members of the Filipino public, who are calling for transparency and accountability—especially from those who were in the same circle as the deceased businessman.

The organizers of the Manila International Film Festival have also refrained from issuing a statement, further fueling speculation about what transpired during and after the event.

As the investigation continues, the Filipino community is watching closely and hoping that both U.S. authorities and Philippine officials will bring clarity to the case. For now, the questions surrounding Juan Paolo Tantoco’s death remain unanswered, and the call for truth continues to grow louder.