Do you remember where you were when the news broke? The sudden passing of Rico Yan wasn't just a headline; it was a collective moment of grief etched into the memory of the Philippines. The matinee idol, the face of a generation, gone too soon. His death in 2002 sent shockwaves throughout the nation, leaving fans reeling and searching for answers.

Rico Yan, more than just an actor, was a cultural phenomenon. His charisma and boy-next-door appeal captivated audiences, making him one of the most beloved figures in Filipino entertainment. He wasn't merely acting; he embodied the aspirations and dreams of the Filipino youth. That's why his death, at the young age of 27, felt like a personal loss for so many. It was during Holy Week, a time of reflection and faith, that the news of his passing spread like wildfire. The initial reports were vague, shrouded in mystery, only deepening the sense of disbelief and sorrow.

Category	Information
Full Name	Ricardo Carlos Castro Yan
Birth Date	March 14, 1975
Death Date	March 29, 2002
Age at Death	27
Birth Place	Medical City, Mandaluyong, Philippines (then located in Mandaluyong)
Occupation	Actor, Matinee Idol, Entrepreneur
Years Active	1990s - 2002
Known For	His roles in movies and TV shows such as "Mara Clara," "Esperanza," "Got 2 Believe"
Relationship	Previously in a relationship with Claudine Barretto
Cause of Death	Cardiac Arrest due to Acute Hemorrhagic Pancreatitis
Spiritual Advisor	Tito Caluag
Legacy	Rico Yan Youth Foundation, inspiration to Filipino youth
Resting Place	Manila Memorial Park, Paraaque City
Reference	Rico Yan IMDB