Ric Segreto was one of the most respected singer-songwriters in the Philippines, who became popular in the 1980s with his timeless OPM classics such as “Don’t Know What to Say” and “Give Me a Chance”. He was also an actor, teacher, journalist, and historian, who had a diverse background and a passion for music and performing arts. But his life and career were cut short by a fatal motorcycle accident on September 6, 1998. How did this happen and what was the impact of his death on his family, friends, and fans? This article will explore the life and legacy of Ric Segreto, and the circumstances that led to his untimely demise.
A Musical Journey
Ric Segreto was born Richard Vincent Macaraeg on September 27, 1952 in Brooklyn, New York City, to an Italian-American mother and a Filipino father. His father, Dr. Godofredo Macaraeg, was a captain in the Philippine Army during World War II, who survived the Bataan Death March and the Corregidor Island imprisonment. He later became an abdominal surgeon and a diplomate to the F.A.C.S. His mother, Bridget Segreto, was a dietician at a New York hospital. Ric, the second son of five brothers and one sister, was exposed to music and singing at an early age, as both his parents loved music.
The family moved to the Philippines in 1957, where Ric attended Lourdes School of Quezon City. In 1959, they relocated to Guam, where Ric formed his first band, the Asteroids, with his elder brother Gordon and some grandsons of Filipino composer Nicanor Abelardo. They played in bars patronized by military personnel. Ric was later sent back to the Philippines to attend high school at the Ateneo de Manila, where he became friends with the members of the APO Hiking Society. After a year at the Ateneo, Ric returned to Guam and formed another band, the Salvation Army, with his brother Goff and some friends. They performed all over the island until Ric completed his high school.
Ric then went to college in the States, choosing Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, where he majored in history. During his college years, Ric played in bar bands for military service men in Bellevue, Nebraska and acted in college plays. After graduation in 1974, he toured the US with a show band, singing and playing bass guitar at various clubs and casinos.
A Return to the Philippines
In 1976, Ric decided to return to the Philippines and pursue a career in music and entertainment. He joined the Circus Band, a popular group that also launched the careers of Tillie Moreno, Jacqui Magno, Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, and Pat Castillo. Ric also ventured into acting, appearing in movies such as Disco Fever, Legs Katawan Babae, and Summer Love. He also hosted a TV show called Noontime Matinee with Kuh Ledesma.
But it was his solo career that made him a household name in the Philippine music industry. He released his first album, Now, in 1979, which featured the hit song “Don’t Know What to Say”. The song, composed by Odette Quesada, became an instant classic and a staple in weddings and romantic occasions. Ric followed it up with more albums and songs that showcased his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, such as “Give Me a Chance”, “Loving You”, “Stay”, and “Kahit Konting Pagtingin”. He also collaborated with other artists, such as Kuh Ledesma, Zsa Zsa Padilla, and Joey Albert.
Ric was not only a singer, but also a songwriter, who penned songs for himself and for other artists. He wrote “Even If” for Lea Salonga, “I Can’t Find No Reason” for Louie Heredia, and “You’re My Everything” for Martin Nievera. He also composed jingles for commercials, such as “I Love Coca-Cola” and “Rejoice”.
Ric was also a teacher, who taught history and music at the International School Manila. He was also a journalist, who wrote articles for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and the Manila Chronicle. He was also a historian, who researched and documented the history of the Macaraeg clan and the town of Malasiqui, Pangasinan, where his father was born.
A Tragic Accident
On September 6, 1998, at around 12:15 PM, Ric was riding his motorcycle from his home in Makati. He was on his way to a recording studio to finish his latest album, which was supposed to be released on his birthday. He was also planning to fly to Guam the next day to visit his mother, who was ill.
As he was crossing the then-under-construction Makati–Buendia Flyover bridgeway, he either ran into or was hit by a steel bar. The impact caused him to lose control of his motorcycle and crash into the concrete pavement. He suffered multiple injuries and was rushed to the Makati Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. He was 45 years old.
The news of his death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and fans, who remembered him as a talented, kind, and generous person. His funeral was attended by many celebrities and personalities, who paid tribute to his music and legacy. His unfinished album was later released posthumously, with the title Segreto.
A Lasting Legacy
Ric Segreto may be gone, but his music lives on. His songs have been covered by many artists, such as Erik Santos, Rachelle Ann Go, Christian Bautista, and Sarah Geronimo. His songs have also been used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, such as “Don’t Know What to Say” in My Amnesia Girl, “Loving You” in Till I Met You, and “Kahit Konting Pagtingin” in a Jollibee ad. His songs have also been included in various compilations and tribute albums, such as OPM Gold, OPM Platinum, and The Best of Ric Segreto.
Ric Segreto’s life and career may have been cut short by a tragic accident, but his music and legacy will always be remembered and cherished by his family, friends, and fans. He was a true OPM legend, who gave us timeless classics that touched our hearts and souls.
