Controversial drag artist Pura Luka Vega has been acquitted by the Manila Regional Trial Court, following a series of legal proceedings over a case filed by members of the religious group Hijos Del Nazareno.
The news was confirmed Tuesday, June 10, by non-governmental organization (NGO) Rainbow Rights Philippines through a Facebook post. Pura Luka Vega, whose legal name is Amadeus Fernando Pagente, is currently serving as Advocacy Officer of the group.
“JUST IN! Pura Luka Vega’s volunteer lawyers from Burkley and Aquino Law Office inform us that Pura Luka Vega has been ACQUITTED by the Manila RTC,” the group wrote. “This is an amazing gift in time for Pride Month as the Manila RTC affirms a person’s right to freedom of expression and freedom to exercise one’s own beliefs!”
The case stemmed from a viral drag performance by Pura Luka Vega where they impersonated Jesus in a viral “Ama Namin” drag performance back in July 2023, which some members of the Hijos Del Nazareno considered offensive.
Following the controversial act, the draq queen faced charges under Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Republic Act No. 10175.
Despite the court’s ruling in favor of the artist, Rainbow Rights warned of the “chilling effect” created by “antiquated laws” that continue to be used to file criminal charges against artists and drag performers.
“These laws must be repealed,” the organization emphasized.
In a statement following the acquittal, the former Drag Den Philippines contestant dedicated the legal victory to the LGBTQIA+ community and reaffirmed their commitment to free expression.
“Inidalay po namin sa komunidad ng LGBTQIA+ ang aming panalo sa kaso sa Maynila,” Pura Luka Vega’s message began,
They continued, “Ipinapahayag namin ang aming lubos na paggalang sa pananampalatayang lahat ng tao kabilang na ang mga nagsampa sa akin ng kaso. Sa kabila nito, gusto rin po naming iparating na ang aming sining at ekspreson ay ang esensya ng demokrasya at kalayaan magpahayag.
Pura Luka Vega also expressed gratitude to those who poured unwavering supported towards them and their fight for justice.
“Ang aking lubos na pasasalamat sa lahat po ng tumulong sa akin sa panahon na sinikil ang aking mga kalayaan. Ang aking mga abogado, mga testigo mula sa sektor at sa akademya, mga tumatangkilik sa drag at sa mga nag-ambag sa aking laban. Lahat ng binigay ninyong tulong ay lubos naming pinapahalagahan.”
Vega closed the statement with a call to action and solidarity, noting that they have already forgiven those who ridiculed and took pleasure in their hardships.
“Sa huli, matapang kong masasabing nanaig ang hustisya. Matagal ko na pong napatawad ang mga taong nanutya at nagdiwang sa aking pinagdaanan.”
“Sa true lang, sa mga bakla at nailba sa lipunan, patuloy tayong lumaban at i-claim naten ang karapatang maging tunay na tayo. Walang kyeme! At nawa’y iadya natin ang isa’t isa sa lahat ng masama,” their message concluded.
