In Part 2 of his interview with Philippine Television icon Korina Sanchez on Korina Interviews, veteran international broadcast journalist Rico Hizon took viewers on a journey through his illustrious career and personal life. The episode aired on NET 25, was a heartwarming reflection on Hizon’s unwavering commitment to his craft and pride in his Filipino heritage, filled with anecdotes that revealed the man behind the news anchor.
ICYMI From Reluctant Speaker to International Broadcaster: Rico Hizon Tells All on Korina Interviews
“I’ve been in the BBC World News for 18 years. Tingnan mo hindi nag-iba ang aking accent (Look, my accent hasn’t changed),” Rico shared, a testament to his dedication to maintaining his Filipino identity. Despite his global career spanning 25 years, Rico remained grounded, never losing touch with his roots by joining Filipino organizations and organizing concerts and performances. “At tsaka, marunong pa rin akong mag-Tagalog (And I still know how to speak Tagalog),” he proudly added, showcasing his love for his native language.
READ Rico Hizon Takes the Lead in Championing Filipino Pride
Rico Hizon’s Star-Studded Encounters
Throughout his career, Rico has interviewed some of the world’s most iconic figures. He reminisced about his encounter with the late Kobe Bryant, describing the basketball legend as “so charismatic” and “welcoming.” Rico’s recollection of asking Kobe for an autograph, against the advice of his bodyguards, painted a vivid picture of a star who was generous with his fans. “He said, ‘Stay away. I’m going to do this for Rico,'” Rico recalled with admiration. The memory of Kobe’s tragic passing in January 2020 was a poignant moment in the interview, as Rico reflected on the profound impact the athlete had on him.
Rico also shared his experiences with other notable personalities, including a mesmerizing interview with former US President Bill Clinton. “He held my hand. He looks into my eye. Rico, it was lovely speaking with you,” Rico recounted, illustrating Clinton’s magnetic charm and intellectual prowess. The former president’s inquiry about Rico’s education—”Because your English is impeccable“—was a compliment that highlighted Rico’s exceptional communication skills.
Rico checked off his other most memorable interviews, reading like a bucket list for any journalist: music icons David Foster, Steven Tyler, and Josh Groban; actor Jamie Foxx, Andrew Garfield, and Emma Stone.
WATCH a short clip of Rico Hizon on Korina Interviews:
The Decision to Come Home: A Heartfelt Choice
Rico’s journey wasn’t just about career highlights. It was also a narrative of personal sacrifices and heartfelt decisions. The turning point came when his father, at 90 years old, expressed a simple wish: “Finish your OFW status. Come home.”
MORE: BBC News anchor Rico Hizon comes home after 25 years overseas to strengthen CNN Philippines
Rico’s love for his family shone through as he shared his decision to return to the Philippines after a successful stint abroad. “I love my dad. He’s the only one that I have left,” Rico said, his voice filled with emotion.
His return was not without its challenges, including the unexpected closure of CNN Philippines. However, Rico faced these hurdles with grace and resilience, reflecting the strength of his character.
“I really don’t have any regrets because when I joined CNN Philippines, it was fantastic. I was able to come up and produce a show that had basically all the elements that I had from my days with CNBC, which is business and finance, to BBC, which was entertainment, lifestyle, politics, and sports. I combined all of that, and that was the formula of ‘The Final Word’,” shared Rico.
ICYMI Rico Hizon: Leading the Way in Asian Broadcast Journalism with Asian TV Awards Win
A New Chapter: Embracing New Opportunities
Now, as the Senior Vice President for Corporate Relations at SM Investments Corporation, Rico continues to make his mark. “I’m blessed,” he said, expressing gratitude for the new opportunities that have come his way.
This role, although a departure from his previous work in news, allows him to utilize his vast journalism experience in a different arena. Rico’s enthusiasm for his new role is palpable, as he explores the intricacies of one of the Philippines’ largest conglomerates.
Rico Hizon’s Creative Pursuits: An Art Aficionado and Singer
Beyond journalism, Rico’s passions extend to art and music. He is an avid collector of works by the renowned Filipino artist Ben Cabrera, known as BenCab. The interview showed Rico’s Bencab paintings, revealing his deep appreciation for Filipino culture and artistry. His collection includes ‘Woman with Chopsticks,’ a unique work characterized by its paint drips, showcasing BenCab’s innovative style, and ’36 Movements of Sabel,’ from the famous ‘Sabel’ series.
Rico’s love for music was also on display, with Korina coaxing him into singing a snippet of “If Ever I Would Leave You” from Camelot, Rico’s audition piece for a play he was supposed to perform in if not for a vehicular accident that thankfully did not hurt him, but which made him pause and rethink his options.
Rico also sang a few lines from his favorites from the Philippines’ Concert King, Martin Nievera: “Be My Lady” and “Say That You Love Me.” These moments offered a rare, intimate glimpse into Rico’s multifaceted personality.
WATCH Martin Nievera marks 100th Facebook Live show with CNN’s Rico Hizon
Celebrating Filipino Excellence
Rico Hizon’s story is a testament to the resilience, talent, and spirit of Filipinos worldwide. His journey, marked by triumphs and challenges, inspires pride in his heritage and dedication to excellence. As Rico himself put it, “Lagi kong itinatayo ang bandila ng Pilipinas (I always raise the flag of the Philippines).”
WATCH Rico Hizon chat, laugh, and sing on Korina Interviews here:
To learn more about Rico Hizon’s incredible journey and other stories celebrating Filipino excellence, visit GoodNewsPilipinas.com. SHARE this article with friends and family, and let’s continue to uplift and inspire our community with stories of success and resilience.
Be part of our vibrant Good News Pilipinas community, celebrating the best of the Philippines and our global Filipino heroes. As winners of the Gold Anvil Award and the Lasallian Scholarum Award, we invite you to engage with us and share your inspiring stories. For stories Making Every Filipino Proud, reach out to GoodNewsPilipinas.com via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn. LinkTree here. Let’s spread good news together!
