He played college ball for the University of the Philippines in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, Eric gained prominence in College when in 1986, together with Ronnie Magsanoc and Benjie Paras, they led the UP Maroons to its first UAAP crown after 47 years and the team's first post-war title since the NCAA days.

He wasn't really able to prove his worth in the pros, playing back-up to the starting point guard of his team.

[5] On December 7, the management of the NU Bulldogs accepted the resignation letter of Altamirano.

After leading the Cowboys in the All-Filipino Conference, he moved to the Mobiline Phone Pals and gave them a championship, the 1998 PBA Centennial Cup.

But after the 2000 PBA All-Filipino Cup, he was fired together with the whole coaching staff,[7] and replaced by his former assistant Louie Alas.

He left Purefoods, after being selected by Jong Uichico as the RP men's basketball team assistant coach.

Altamirano would oversee the Chooks-to-Go 3x3 teams which competed at the FIBA 3x3 Men's Pro Circuit for two years.