Theater actress and singer May Bayot-De Castro dies

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 27, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Facebook/The Sandbox Collective

The Philippine theater community is mourning the death of veteran actress and singer May Bayot-De Castro, whose work on stage earned her recognition as one of the country’s accomplished musical theater performers.

Bayot-De Castro, the sister of renowned singer Lani Misalucha, was known for her versatility as a performer, moving between acting, singing and dance throughout her career.

She began performing in the late 1980s and went on to become a familiar name in Philippine theater. Her notable performances included roles in Himala: Isang Musikal and Skin Deep, productions that showcased her range and command of the stage.

Her portrayal of Elsa in Himala: Isang Musikal earned her the Best Actress award at the 2004 Aliw Awards. She also received recognition for playing Amor Sangre in Skin Deep, winning another Best Actress honor at the 2008 Aliw Awards. In 2003, she was named Best Theater Actress at the Aliw Awards.

Coming from a musically gifted family, Bayot-De Castro developed her vocal skills under the guidance of her parents, both musicians. Her two-and-a-half-octave vocal range and ability to perform across different genres helped shape her career as a singer and theater artist.

Beyond musical theater, she also took part in advocacy productions. In 2010, she starred in the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s Rated: PG, a play that explored corporal punishment and positive discipline, using theater to encourage conversations about raising and protecting children.

Her passing has prompted tributes from members of the entertainment and theater communities, who are remembering her contributions to Philippine performing arts.

Bayot-De Castro leaves behind a body of work that reflects her dedication to the stage and the enduring role of Filipino artists in bringing local stories to life.