Prominent drag artist Amadeus Pagente, popularly known as Pura Luka Vega, maintains a hopeful disposition amidst the barrage of backlash and ongoing legal disputes stemming from her controversial “Ama Namin” remix performance.
Vega expressed gratitude and courage in a recent Facebook post where she detailed her ongoing interactions with supporters and her initiative to normalize drag art in public spaces.
Vega emphasized her continuous efforts to foster understanding and shared queer experiences and practices.
“Masaya makinig at makipagkwentuhan sa mga tao para magkaunawaan,” she said, which translates to “It’s nice to listen and converse with people for understanding.” Demonstrating a resilient spirit, she continues to engage with the public, even while adorned in drag, in a bid to spread knowledge and appreciation for the art form.
Vega has been navigating turbulent waters following her performance. She is currently grappling with a complaint filed under Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, a statute that penalizes “immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions as well as indecent shows.”
Alongside this, Vega is confronting additional complaints lodged in accordance with the Revised Penal Code and the Cybercrime Prevention Act. Her present legal predicament has further been exacerbated by being declared a persona non grata in 16 cities.
Despite the monumental challenges, Vega manifests grace and positivity, taking a moment to appreciate the prosecutor’s respectful gesture of asking for her pronouns. She retains a commitment to kindness, stating, “Amidst all the challenges, I remind myself to be kind.”