Controversial drag queen Pura Luka Vega is reportedly facing criminal complaints for allegedly offending religious feelings with a video of them dancing in a Black Nazarene costume.
On Monday, October 23, a group of social media broadcasters reportedly filed criminal charges against Pura Luka Vega, whose real name is Amadeus Fernando Pagente, at the Pasay City Prosecutors Office, according to a Philippine STAR report.
Head of Kapisanan ng mga Social Media Broadcasters ng Pilipinas Inc. (KSMBPI) Leo Olarte lodged six counts of violation under Article 133, which concerns the offense against religious beliefs, and Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, in connection with the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Attorney Mark Tolentino, the legal counsel of KSMBPI, made the charges public by sharing them on his personal Facebook account.
According to Tolentino, the case emerged after the drag artist posted a video on their verified TikTok account of them dancing while wearing an outfit inspired by the Black Nazarene and holding a host,
The group slammed Pura Luka Vega’s actions stating that they were deeply offensive to the association, particularly in a predominantly Christian country like the Philippines.
Tolentino further noted that the group serves as a watchdog, especially for those who misuse social media platforms.
Earlier on October 4, Pura Luka Vega was apprehended by local authorities in Manila for charges of “immoral doctrines, obscene publications, and exhibitions, as well as indecent shows”, which stemmed from their viral performance of “Ama Namin”.
Vega’s arrest garnered the attention of the public and triggered a backlash from their supporters and fellow drag artists.
Pura Luka Vega has since been released on bail and was recently seen performing the song “The Prayer” at a fundraising event.
