Tantoco family still finalizing arrangements to bring Paolo home

MANILA, Philippines — The Tantoco family, the business clan behind the luxury retail chain Rustan Commercial Corporation, is still finalizing arrangements to bring home the remains of Paolo Tantoco, 44, following his untimely passing in the United States.

In a statement shared by his brother, Bienvenido "Donnie" Tantoco III, on Sunday, March 9, their parents, Nena and Bienvenido "Rico" Tantoco Jr., expressed deep sorrow on losing their beloved son.

"It is with great sorrow that we share the sudden passing of our son Paolo 'Paowee' Tantoco. We are devastated by our loss and kindly request for your prayers for Paowee and our family. We will share more details as we finalize arrangements for bringing him home to the Philippines," the statement read.

In the latest update from the family, Donnie — who is president of Rustans — announced that while they are still waiting for Paolo's repatriation, novena masses have been arranged in his memory. The services will be held at Sta. Elena Golf Clubhouse — a country club in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, founded by their father, Rico — beginning today.

Paolo is survived by his wife, Malacañang's Deputy Social Secretary Dina Arroyo-Tantoco, and their three children — Alana, Bella, and Zach. This year would have marked the couple's 19th wedding anniversary since their civil union in the US, which they later celebrated with a church ceremony in the Philippines in 2016.

Paolo served as Assistant Vice President for Administration at Rustan's Commercial Corporation (RCC), playing a key role in the family's retail business. Committed to further honing his expertise in the field, he pursued a Master's in Business Administration at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), earning his degree in 2017.

According to public records obtained by The Manila Times online, the Los Angeles County coroner's office recorded Paolo's passing under Case Number 2025-04377. The report identified the deceased as Juan Paolo Tantoco, a 44-year-old Asian male who was found at a hotel.

As the report was released, the cause and manner of death remained under investigation, with the deputy medical examiner deferring a ruling pending further findings.

The Tantoco family continues to request prayers and support as they navigate this difficult time, with further details to be shared as they become available.