Marina Summers has spoken out after fellow drag queen Angel Galang sparked online backlash over her viral remark about the former historic hosting stint for Miss Universe Philippines 2026.
In a statement posted on X, Marina addressed the controversy and condemned the wave of transphobia, hate, and death threats that followed her appointment as the first trans woman to host the national pageant.
“This is not what I stand for. This NEEDS TO STOP,” Marina wrote, adding that while Angel’s comments hurt her, she does not condone the hate being thrown back at her drag sister.
Hosting Miss Universe Philippines 2026 has been one of the greatest milestones of my career and my life.
— Marina Summers (@marinaxsummers) May 6, 2026
And while I understand that there will be different opinions and some resistance to it, I did not expect the vile & alarming amount of transphobia, hate and even death…
The issue began after Angel posted a now-viral remark about Marina’s MUPH hosting gig, which drew criticism from drag fans and prompted a public apology from Angel, who admitted she “over-expressed” herself and took accountability for her actions.
Angel later revealed she had been receiving death threats, saying the backlash became too extreme and acknowledging the lessons she learned from the controversy.
“Mga tao, nakilala niyo ako na madalas hindi seryoso at nilalaro nalang ang lahat ng bagay, pero may gusto lang ako ibahagi sainyo. Nagkamali ako sobra sa nagawa ko, pero mali naman din siguro na pati buhay ko ay pinag-babantaan na,” wrote Angel on Facebook.
Marina said the they have since resolved the issue privately, urging fans to give Angel “space and understanding” and to focus instead on “love, grace, and kindness.”
Marina’s appointment marked a milestone for LGBTQIA+ representation in Philippine pageantry, making her the first trans woman to host Miss Universe Philippines.
