NEWSFLASH

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RIC SEGRETO, 46

Manila, Sept. 8, 1998 - Here is a biographical capsule of the late singer Ric Segreto, compiled from various sources by PHNO's Manila Bureau staff.

Segreto's real name was Richard Macaraeg Segreto, and his last known address was 124 Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati.

He joined the music industry in the 70s, and became a pop music idol in the 1980s. His hit songs GIVE ME A CHANCE, DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY and the Tagalog classic KAHIT KONTING PAGTINGIN became gold and platinum records.

The singer was discovered while performing with a band at the Cusco Lounge of the Manila Midtown Hotel in the early 80s when stage director Nestor Torre cast him in the musical CABARET opposite Cynthia Patag. His singing talent and good looks elicited rave notices. A recording contract followed.

He was a consistent Awit Awards winner, and copped the Grand Prize of the Metro Pop music competition.

He decided on a career change in the late 80s, moving with his Dutch flight stewardess wife to Guam where he taught literature at the University of Guam, doing only a few solo performances on the side. His father is a doctor still practising in Guam.

Four years ago, estranged from his wife, he decided to return to the Philippines to resume his singing career. He was cast last year in the musical LAPU-LAPU where he played the role of the Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

There were rumors that he had wanted to run for mayor of his home town Malasiqui, Pangasinan, in the last elections. No public explanation was made for his decision not to run.

Ric Segreto left a son.