Mc Richard Paglicawan
Showbiz columnist Jobert Sucaldito did not hold back as he openly expressed his frustration, going as far as saying that he wanted to make ‘sabunot’ Pura Luka Vega for a controversial performance that raised eyebrows.
In a recent episode of Snooky Serna’s YouTube channel, posted on August 26, Jobert shared his thoughts on the contentious act by Pura Luka Vega. The drag queen had performed ‘Ama Namin’ (Our Father), while dressed as the Black Nazarene, sparking a wave of criticism.
Jobert, who identified himself as a devout Catholic, did not mince words in expressing his disapproval of Pura’s performance. He even admitted to having the urge to slap the artist for the act.
The veteran columnist emphasized that using religious themes in such a manner was akin to blasphemy, and he hoped that Pura would reconsider their actions.
“I hope it doesn’t happen again. Because you know, I’m a very devout Catholic kasi ako.. Gusto kitang sabunutan actually. Gusto kong sabunutan kasi nga that is like using the Lord or the God in vain.. I hope na maisip mo ito, though ang katwiran mo ay wala kang intensyon paglaruan, pero please maraming bagay na pwedeng gawin, wag ito,” Jobert remarked.
Pura Luka Vega, a prominent drag performer in the Philippines, has been embroiled in controversy and legal challenges since July 2023, following their performance of a rock rendition of the Lord’s Prayer while dressed as Jesus Christ. This act stirred significant backlash from various religious groups, who accused Vega of blasphemy.
In the wake of the controversy, Vega faced being declared persona non grata in multiple provinces and cities in the Philippines. They also faced legal charges under the country’s penal code, which prohibits obscene publications and exhibitions. Vega staunchly maintained that their performance was an exercise of freedom of expression.
At present, Pura Luka Vega has not responded to Jobert Sucaldito’s remarks, and the situation remains a subject of ongoing discussions and debates within both the social and legal spheres.
