The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that Paolo Tantoco, a 44-year-old Filipino businessman and scion of the wealthy Tantoco family, died from “cocaine effects” on March 8, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. The manner of death was ruled as an accident, with probable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease listed as a contributing condition.
Details of the Incident
Tantoco was part of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ entourage promoting the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Hollywood from March 4 to 7. The MIFF’s tribute gala was held on March 7 at The Beverly Hilton, where Tantoco was found unresponsive the next day.
Tantoco’s Background
As a member of the prominent Tantoco family, Paolo was an assistant vice president for administration at Rustan’s Commercial Corporation, which operates the upscale Rustan’s department stores in the Philippines. He was survived by his wife, Dina Arroyo-Tantoco, a Deputy Social Secretary for the President of the Philippines, and their three children, Alana, Bella, and Zach.
Family Reaction
The Tantoco family announced Paolo’s passing on March 9, 2025, expressing their devastation and requesting prayers for their son and family. His remains were repatriated to the Philippines and laid to rest shortly after.
