The Philippine theater community is mourning the passing of May Bayot-De Castro, an award-winning actress and singer whose powerful voice, compelling stage presence, and memorable performances helped shape the country’s musical theater landscape.
Bayot-De Castro died on October 26, 2026, at the age of 61. Her younger sister, OPM icon Lani Misalucha, confirmed her passing in an emotional social media tribute, remembering her as a beloved sister whose light would continue to shine through the memories she left behind.
“Some walk beside us for years. Others leave sooner than we’re ready for. But every person we love leaves a little light behind,” Misalucha wrote.
“I love you Ate,” she added.
The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow performers, theater organizations, and friends who remember Bayot-De Castro not only for her talent but also for her contributions to the Philippine performing arts.
PETA pays tribute to a cherished theater artist
The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) was among the organizations that honored Bayot-De Castro following her passing.
In its tribute, PETA remembered her as a beloved artist and collaborator whose work helped create memorable productions throughout the years.
Bayot-De Castro was part of several notable PETA productions, including Ang Paglalakbay ni Radiya Mangandiri (1993), 1896: The Musicale (1995), Skin Deep (2008), and Rated: PG (2010).
Her performances reflected her versatility as an actress and singer, bringing complex characters to life while contributing to productions that explored meaningful social narratives.
PETA extended its condolences to her family, friends, fellow artists, and everyone whose life she touched.
“Rest in power, May. You will be remembered,” the theater organization said.
A celebrated career on the Philippine stage
Bayot-De Castro was particularly remembered for her portrayal of Elsa in Himala: Isang Musikal, the stage adaptation of the iconic 1982 film starring Nora Aunor.
Her performance in the musical earned her recognition in the Philippine theater community, establishing her as one of the country’s accomplished musical theater performers.
Years later, she returned to the production, this time portraying Nanay Saling, Elsa’s mother.
Another defining role in her career was Amor Sangre in PETA’s Skin Deep, a performance that earned her a Gawad Buhay Award for Best Lead Actress in a Musical.
Her other theater credits included Rama at Sita, Ibalong, Sandosenang Sapatos, Once on This Island, Flower Drum Song, and Rated: PG.
She also appeared on television, including in the ABS-CBN series The General’s Daughter.
Beyond acting, Bayot-De Castro was a gifted vocalist who performed with the band Acoustic Jive, known for its repertoire spanning jazz, pop, R&B, blues, and reggae.
A difficult battle with illness
Before her passing, Bayot-De Castro had been battling primary myelofibrosis, a rare bone marrow disease, and chronic kidney disease.
According to a fundraising appeal shared by her family, she had undergone repeated hospitalizations, dialysis sessions, and blood transfusions as she continued to fight her illnesses.
Her condition also placed a significant financial burden on her family, prompting friends and fellow artists to organize fundraising initiatives to help cover her medical expenses.
In July, Misalucha appealed for prayers for her sister after she was hospitalized due to serious complications.
The family later sought financial assistance for Bayot-De Castro’s continuing treatment.
Remembering May beyond the spotlight
Bayot-De Castro came from a musical family. Her father, Benjamin Bayot, was an operatic tenor, while her mother, Esperanza Bayot, was a coloratura soprano.
Her younger sister, Lani Misalucha, went on to become one of the Philippines’ most celebrated singers, earning the title “Asia’s Nightingale.”
But May Bayot-De Castro established her own identity in the performing arts, building a career through her dedication to theater, music, and storytelling.
Her legacy lives on in the productions she helped bring to life, the fellow artists she inspired, and the audiences who experienced her performances.
As the Philippine theater community grieves her passing, the curtain may have fallen on one remarkable artist’s life, but the stories she told and the artistry she shared will continue to resonate.
May Bayot-De Castro may be gone, but her light remains onstage and in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.
