Actor Rayver Cruz once recorded a version of Martin Nievera’s “I’ll Be There For You” that was used in one of his teleseryes.

Nowadays, it’s his friends and fans’ turn to sing it to him.

Last Oct. 21, some of Rayver’s Star Magic co-talents heard mass with the dancer-actor and his family at Holy Trinity Memorial Chapel in Sucat, Paranaque as a gesture of condolence to the passing away of his father, Rodolfo Ilustre, Sr.

Some of these Kapamilya stars were Shaina Magdayao, Melissa Ricks, Yeng Constantino, Ruben Gonzaga, Liezel Garcia, Bugoy Drilon, Cass Ponti and Aldred Gatchalian. “Pinoy Dream Academy” alumni Yeng Constatino and Bugoy Drilon also sang at the wake.

“Kaya mo yan, kaya niyo ‘yan ni Rodjun (Cruz, Rayver’s brother). Basta nandito lang kami ng mga kaibigan mo para damayan ka, kayo ng family mo. Hindi porket wala na siya dito, ito na ‘yung magiging sukdulan ng kalungkutan niyo,” was Yeng’s words of encouragement to Rayver.

“Buong grupo kaming nagpunta dito. Nandito lang kaming mga Kapamilya niya para suportahan siya all the way,” said Shaina, Rayver’s former onscreen partner.

A number of Rayver’s fans also posted messages of condolence online.

“I hope that the words of the Bible that say ‘Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted’ will be especially true for you. My prayers will be that you find comfort in your faith as you make it through this very difficult time,” read one post.

Another from Rayver’s PinoyExchange thread, said: “We'll always be here for you Ray. We'll stand by you through anything, promise.”

Although grieving, Rayver put up a brave front, drawing strength from the outpouring of love he and his family receive from friends.

“Kapag nandiyan ‘yung mga kaibigan mo, ‘yung mga nagmamahal sa’yo, medyo gumagaan. 'Yun nga lang, mahirap kapag ikaw nang mag-isa. Dun ko nami-miss si Papa,” said he on “Showbiz News Ngayon,” Oct. 21.

According to reports, Rayver’s 75-year old father was confined in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for two months before finally succumbing to death on Oct. 19 at 6:15 a.m. due to kidney failure and complications of vital organs, including the lungs.

Rodolfo’s remains will be cremated on Oct. 24, Saturday.