Amay Bisaya
 | This article may incorporate text from a large language model. (June 2025) |
Amay Bisaya | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Amay Bisaya on the 45th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Martial Law | |
| Born | Amay Roberto Gloria Reyes April 3, 1958 |
| Died | May 8, 2025 (aged 67) |
| Occupation(s) | Actor, comedian, politician |
| Years active | 1972–2025 |
Amay Roberto Gloria Reyes (April 3, 1958 – May 8, 2025),[1][2] most widely known by his screen name Amay Bisaya, was a Filipino actor, comedian, and occasional politician. He rose to prominence for his numerous comedic supporting roles, often as a sidekick, in a vast array of Filipino action and comedy films. His distinct Visayan accent and unique brand of humor made him a recognizable and beloved figure in Philippine cinema for over five decades.
Early life and education
[edit]Amay Roberto Reyes was born on April 3, 1958, in Tubigon, Bohol, Philippines.[1]
Career
[edit]Acting
[edit]Amay Bisaya's acting career began in 1972. He started as a production utility boy before being discovered by prominent figures in the industry, including Fernando Poe Jr., who is credited with giving him his initial breaks.[3][4][5]
He became a staple in Philippine action and comedy films, often typecast as the loyal, sometimes bumbling, yet endearing sidekick to lead action stars. His trademark Visayan accent was a key element of his on-screen persona and contributed to his stage name, "Amay Bisaya." He was known for his "kitsch and slapstick type of comedy," which resonated with Filipino audiences.[3]
Actors' Guild involvement
[edit]Beyond his acting roles, Amay Bisaya was actively involved in the welfare of his colleagues in the entertainment industry. He served as the VP Internal Affairs of the Katipunan ng mga Artistang Pilipino sa Pelikula at Telebisyon Inc. (Actors Guild of the Philippines).[6]
Political career
[edit]Amay Bisaya ventured into politics, seeking public office on several occasions. He ran for Governor of Bohol in the 2013 and 2019 elections.[7][8][9] He also pursued a senatorial seat under the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL) party. Despite his efforts, he was unsuccessful in his political bids.[10]
Death
[edit]Amay Bisaya died on May 8, 2025, in Quezon City, Philippines, at the age of 67. His death was caused by complications from diabetes, with reports also indicating he suffered a stroke.[3][2][4][11][5]
Selected filmography
[edit]- Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (2011)
- Ang Panday 2 (2011)
- Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote (2010)
- Ang Darling Kong Aswang (2009)
- Kesong Puti (1999)
- Tondo: Libingan ng mga Siga (1992)
- Alega Gang: Public Enemy No. 1 of Cebu (1988)
- Pepeng Kuryente (A Man with a Thousand Volts) (1988)
- Mirror, Mirror on the Wall (1988)
- Lost and Found Command: Rebels Without Because (1987)
- Payaso (1986)
- Cobrador (1986)
- Diary of a Killer (1985)
- Anak ng Tondo (1985)
- Working Boys (1985)
- Ang Padrino (1984)
- Da Best in da West (1984)
- Kapitan Inggo (1984)
- Sa Ngalan Ng Anak (1984)
- Isang Bala Ka Lang! (1983)
- Kapag Buhay Ang Inutang (1983)
- Kirot (1983)
- Naiibang Hayop (1983)
- Pepeng Kaliwete (1982)
- Manedyer... si kumander (1982)
- Daniel Bartolo ng Sapang Bato (1982)
- Si Ako At... Tres Muskiteros! (1982)
- Himala (1982)
- Bandido sa Sapang Bato (1981)
- Deadly Brothers (1981)
- Stariray (1981)
- Kosa (1980)
- John & Marsha '80 (1980)
- Dolphy's Angels (1980)
- Buhay artista ngayon (1979)
- Berdugo ng maton (1977)
- Nardong Putik (1972)
References
[edit]- ^ a b "Amay Bisaya Certificate of Candidacy 2013". Inquirer.net. October 17, 2018. Archived from the original on May 29, 2025. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ a b "Boholanos swarm Amay Bisaya's funeral wake". OpinYon. May 20, 2025. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c "Amay Bisaya proud sa sariling success story". Manila Bulletin. April 9, 2019. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ a b "90s Actor Amay Bisaya Dies At 67". Dito sa Pilipinas. May 14, 2025. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ a b "Amay Bisaya, pumanaw na!" [Amay Bisaya has passed away!]. remate.ph (in Tagalog). May 9, 2025. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "KAPPT newly-elected officers oath-taking with mayor Joseph Estrada". July 21, 2014. Archived from the original on July 21, 2014. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "4 contenders for Bohol gov". The Philippine Star. October 7, 2012. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "Comedian 'Amay Bisaya' fined for election offense". Inquirer.net. October 7, 2012. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "Amay Bisaya joins province's gubernatorial fight". Inquirer.net. October 17, 2018. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "SC upholds disqualification of 6 more presidential bets". The Philippine Star. February 2, 2016. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
- ^ "Actor Amay Bisaya dies". Rappler. May 10, 2025. Retrieved May 29, 2025.
