Decades of dedication
Rey Macapil Ypanto, 51, has been actively engaged in the comedia tradition since 1986. He began his journey as a volunteer, assisting behind the scenes. In 1988, he took his first step into the limelight, portraying one of the devils in the production, and later transitioned to angel roles. As the years passed, Rey's dedication deepened, and he eventually assumed the pivotal role of San Miguel in 1995, a role passed down from his uncle.
He also shared that rehearsals for the play started in January this year, every week or at least once a month. The storyline of San Miguel's life is intricate, and the performers need to master not only their lines but also the nuances of the deep Bisaya language used in the play.
Being with the play for many years, Rey has nurtured a profound faith in San Miguel along with his devotion, or "panaad." He believed that his faith answered his prayers. During the devastating Typhoon Sendong in December 2011, while serving as part of the rescue team, he contracted leptospirosis, a potentially fatal disease. In his darkest hour, Rey prayed to San Miguel for salvation, and he believed that divine intervention played a role in his recovery.
