Wazzup Pilipinas!?
The Philippine business community is mourning the sudden loss of Paolo "Paowee" Tantoco, a prominent figure in the retail industry and a scion of the esteemed Tantoco family, founders of Rustan's Commercial Corporation. Paolo, 44, passed away unexpectedly on March 8, 2025, while in Los Angeles, California.
Paolo held significant roles within the family business, serving as Assistant Vice President of Rustan's Commercial Corporation and Chief Operating Officer of Pacific Links Golf Development Inc. He was also the Chief Security and Procurement Officer of Sta. Elena Golf and Country Estate. His contributions were vital in maintaining Rustan's reputation for quality and luxury in the Philippine market.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Paolo was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Dina Arroyo-Tantoco, Deputy Social Secretary of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., and their three children: Alana, Bella, and Zach. Dina is the daughter of the late Congressman Ignacio "Iggy" Arroyo and niece of former First Gentleman Mike Arroyo.
In a 2017 interview with PeopleAsia, Paolo expressed his dedication to his family's legacy, stating, "I want to give back to the family by adding value to the business." He credited his older brother, Donnie, President of Rustan's Commercial Corporation, as a mentor who taught him that a good leader is "someone who can discover the goodness and greatness in a person and get that person to contribute out of that goodness and greatness."
As the family finalizes arrangements to bring Paolo's remains back to the Philippines, they have requested privacy and prayers during this difficult time.
During the same period, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos was in Los Angeles to promote Filipino talent on the global stage. She has been an active advocate for the Philippine creative industry, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Filipino filmmakers and artists internationally. In November 2024, she inaugurated the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) office in Makati City, urging the local film industry to "give the world our best."
The First Lady's commitment to cultural promotion extends beyond the arts. In December 2024, she, alongside President Marcos, led the awarding of the first-ever housing units for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program. This initiative underscores the administration's dedication to supporting OFWs and their families in achieving their dream of homeownership.
Additionally, in June 2024, the First Lady explored opportunities for cooperation with the United Arab Emirates in the fields of culture, arts, and heritage. Her meeting with Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan focused on enriching the cultural and artistic landscapes of both nations, with a particular emphasis on early childhood development and investment in human capital.
While both Paolo Tantoco and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were in Los Angeles during the same period, there is no credible evidence linking the First Lady to Paolo's untimely passing. Speculations and rumors circulating on social media lack substantiation from reputable news sources. The public is advised to rely on verified information and respect the privacy of those affected during this time of mourning.
The nation joins the Tantoco family in grieving the loss of a dedicated businessman, loving husband, and father. Paolo's legacy in the Philippine retail industry and his commitment to his family's values will be remembered fondly.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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