Dominic Ochoa recalls Rico Yan’s last moments: “He was depressed”
- Dominic Ochoa recalled the final moments he shared with Rico Yan before his sudden passing
- He revealed that Rico was going through a difficult time and wanted to be with friends
- The actor shared that they did not realize the gravity of Rico’s emotional state that night
- His story resurfaced as fans and the industry marked Rico Yan’s 24th death anniversary
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Veteran actor Dominic Ochoa opened up about the heartbreaking final moments he shared with the late matinee idol Rico Yan, as the entertainment industry commemorated the actor’s 24th death anniversary on March 29.
Source: Youtube
In an emotional interview with journalist Susan Enriquez on her program Kay Susan Tayo on GMA Public Affairs’ YouTube channel, Dominic recounted the events leading up to Rico’s passing in 2002, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the final hours of one of Philippine showbiz’s most beloved stars.
Rico Yan passed away on March 29, 2002, at the age of 27 while on a trip with friends. More than two decades later, Dominic’s recollection sheds light on the emotional state Rico was in during that time.
“To cut long story short, there was a breakup that happened and then Rico just wanted to go out of town and he bought tickets for everyone, even without asking us kung sasama kami o hindi,” Dominic shared.
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Despite the spontaneity of the trip, Dominic believes that there was a deeper reason they were all there together.
“But I always believe nilagay kami ng Diyos sa tamang lugar para samahan ’yung tao,” he said, reflecting on what he now sees as a moment of companionship during a difficult period in Rico’s life.
According to Dominic, Rico had been dealing with emotional struggles at the time, though the group may not have fully grasped the extent of what he was going through.
“Nilagay tayo doon ng Diyos to accompany the guy and medyo malalim ’yung pinagdadaanan niya nung time na ’yun,” he added.
The group spent time together, sharing drinks and enjoying each other’s company, but Dominic admitted that Rico’s words that night carried a weight they did not immediately understand.
“We had a few drinks. He [Rico] drank definitely. He was depressed. I remember going home back to the villa, sinabi niya na ‘This is the best day of my life. Pwede na akong…’” Dominic recalled, trailing off. “We didn’t take it seriously.”
The following morning, what began as a normal day quickly turned into a tragedy that would leave a lasting impact on those who loved him.
Dominic shared that Rico had been sleeping in a loft area due to his sleep apnea and loud snoring.
“He has sleep apnea, he snores, kaya siya nasa loft ’eh. Kaya siya nasa loft nung time na ’yun, kasi malakas siya mag-snore,” he explained.
It was Dominic who discovered that something was wrong.
“Ako ’yung gumising, 9:45 a.m., 10 a.m. kami susunduin ng speed boat ’eh. When I tried to wake him up… to go straight to the point, Rico passed. When I tried waking him up, wala na,” he said.
Doctors later estimated that Rico had passed away around 5 a.m., several hours after they had all returned to their villa at around 2 a.m.
“Bumalik kami [ng villa] around 2 a.m. eh tapos sabi ng doktor parang 5 a.m. doon siya nalagutan ng hininga,” Dominic added.
Dominic’s account not only revisits a painful memory but also highlights the importance of being present for loved ones who may be silently struggling. His story resonated deeply with fans who continue to remember Rico Yan not only for his charm and talent but also for the kindness he showed both on and off screen.
Born on August 4, 1974, Dominic Ochoa is a seasoned Filipino actor who built his career through ABS-CBN’s Star Magic. He is married to businesswoman Denise Go-Ochoa, and together they have a son named Sandro. Dominic first appeared on television as a guest on T.G.I.S. on GMA Network before transitioning to ABS-CBN, where he became part of the youth-oriented drama Gimik. He later starred alongside Rico Yan and Marvin Agustin in the hit sitcom Whattamen, further cementing their strong friendship both on and off screen.
In a previous tribute, Marvin Agustin remembered Rico Yan on what would have been his 51st birthday by posting a nostalgic photo featuring himself, Rico, and Dominic. The post reminded fans of their close bond during their Whattamen days, with Marvin expressing how Rico’s presence continues to live on in their memories and in the hearts of those who loved him.
Earlier, Dominic’s wife, Denise Go-Ochoa, also shared a touching story about the actor’s thoughtful nature. She recounted how Dominic went out of his way to fulfill her craving for soup after she came home sick. Despite her request coming while she was half-asleep, Dominic made sure to get her beef wonton noodle soup, a gesture that highlighted his care and attentiveness as a husband.
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