Mc Richard Paglicawan
In a recent development, former contestant of “Drag Den Philippines,” Pura Luka Vega, has been declared persona non grata in Manila due to their contentious performance of “Ama Namin” (Our Father).
The unanimous decision was reached last Tuesday, with City’s 5th District Councilor Ricardo “Boy” Isip highlighting the “blasphemous” nature of Pura’s performance.
Isip emphasized, “Ito pong taong ito ay walang habas at ‘di man lang pinag-isipan ang kanyang ginawa … (I)sang kalapastangan po ang kanyang ginawang palabas. Hindi po dapat itong palagpasin kasi ‘pag pinalagpas natin ito, baka maparisan po ito. Kailangan na po nating gumawa ng aksyon.”
Councilor Jaybee Hizon also underscored the significance of the Black Nazarene to Manila, stating that while freedom of speech is valued, it should not be employed to hurt religious sentiments.
The City of Manila is recognized for the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene, also known as the Traslación, which honors the movement of the Black Nazarene from its original site to Quiapo Church every January 9th.
The controversial video depicted Pura adorned in religious attire while singing a rock version of “Ama Namin.” This video sparked intense criticism from political figures and leaders within the Catholic community.
Aside from being deemed unwelcome in Manila, Pura has also been declared persona non grata in General Santos City in South Cotabato, as well as in the municipalities of Floridablanca in Pampanga and Toboso in Negros Occidental.
Beyond facing these bans from local government units, Pura is also facing legal action initiated by the Philippines for Jesus Movement, a coalition of Christian groups.
Pura Luka Vega is a prominent drag performer in the Philippines, known for their portrayal of Jesus Christ. They participated in the Filipino drag competition “Drag Den Philippines” in 2022.
