Controversial drag queen Pura Luka Vega once again made headlines in her recent performance in Makati on August 20. Pura is known for her daring performances, often portraying herself as a deity, wearing attire inspired by Jesus Nazareno and even adorned with a crown. This portrayal has drawn significant negative reactions, especially from the predominantly Catholic Filipino population, given the sensitive nature of the religious imagery she incorporates into her acts. One of her performances that particularly sparked controversy was her rendition of the “Ama Namin” Lord’s Prayer turned into a rap, and became the focal point of criticism.
In the videos of Pura’s performances that you may have seen, various scenes blatantly go against the beliefs of many, including acts like consuming and reviewing Holy Bread. While Pura’s intention may be to entertain her audience, the majority’s perspective finds her actions inappropriate.
Following her previous performances, Pura has faced numerous legal cases. Consequently, her actions and movements have garnered attention, with many eagerly awaiting her next move. On August 20, at a venue called Apotheka Manila in Makati City, Pura once again took the stage. This time, she performed Taylor Swift’s song “Look What You Made Me Do.” Notably her attire differed from her previous performances, where she typically resembled Jesus Christ. At one point during her act, she held an old photo of herself dressed as Jesus Christ, placing it on the ground and stepping on it while saying, “I’m sorry, but the old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now. Why? Oh, ’cause she’s dead.”
Currently, a total of 12 cities have declared Pura as persona non grata. This fact became part of her closing speech, where she challenged other places to follow suit, stating, “Simple lang naman ang masasabi ko, lahat tayo makasalanan tama? Hindi tayo perpekto tama? Para sa mga ibang lugar na gusto pa mag persona jan, dagdagan nyo pa. Pakialam ko sa separation ng Church at ng State. Ayun lamang po. Thank you po,”
(I want to clarify that nobody is perfect and we are all sinners. For other places that still want me to declare persona non grata, you may do so. I don’t care about the separation of the Church and the State. That’s all. Thank you.) Pura said.
The Persona Non Grata tour, purr! 💅@ama_survivah https://t.co/KdbK2FjdVY pic.twitter.com/vw9SONmjQQ
— Jordy Rae Jepsen 🌻🎬 (@kallandian) August 21, 2023