Artist Bree Jonson’s body found in La Union resort; companion faces drug charges

Police over the weekend discovered the body of painter Bree Jonson in a La Union beach resort and filed a complaint against the man who was with her for alleged violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act.

In a statement, Police Regional Office 1 Director Police Brigadier General Emmanuel Peralta said the San Juan, La Union municipal police found Jonson's body when it responded to a report of alleged suicide at the resort on Saturday.

Julian Ongpin, who had been staying at the resort with her, has been tagged as a person of interest.

Ongpin—son of businessman Roberto Ongpin—also tested positive for cocaine, and 12.6 grams of the illegal substance were recovered.

A complaint for violation of Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 has been filed against Ongpin, police also said.

Probe ongoing

Peralta, for his part, said they are conducting a follow-up investigation to determine Jonson's cause of death and to file more charges if evidence warrants.

"I have already instructed the La Union Police Provincial Office to conduct a thorough investigation on the case," Peralta said.

He also expressed his condolences to Jonson's family.

"On behalf of Police Regional Office 1, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of the late Breana Patricia Jonson Agunod," said Peralta.

The Filipino artist community was also saddened by Jonson's sudden passing at the age of 30. — BM, GMA News