FLORIDABLANCA — The 11th Sangguniang Bayan of this town has declared Filipino drag performer Pura Luka Vega persona non grata on Monday, July 17, for what it said to be blasphemous acts targeting the Christian faith.
In its Resolution No. 321-2003, the council said that it recognizes and upholds the freedom of speech and expression as fundamental rights within the democratic society.
However, the council said acts that mock religious ceremonies and religious figures by presenting satirical, obscene, and perverted representations are condemnable.
“This Sanggunian declares Amadeus Fernando Pagent or Pura Luka Vega as persona non-grata within the municipality,” the resolution stated.
The Sanggunian added that appropriate measures are to be taken to enforce the persona non-grata status, “including denying the person entry into public facilities, refusing them municipal services and prohibiting any official engagements or interactions with municipal representatives.”
The resolution stemmed from a recent viral video of Amadeus Fernando Pagent (Vega's real name) making a mockery of the "Lord's Prayer," which has been regarded as disrespectful by many Christian groups including the Catholic Church, the largest Christian denomination in the country.
Vega's performance received criticism online and from various organizations.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) earlier denounced the drag queen's performance as "blasphemous."
Some members of the LGBTQ+ had also found the “Ama Namin” drag performance offensive.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri also condemned the performance and urged authorities to look into the matter.
Zubiri noted that Vega's action is a criminal offense in violation of Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, which punishes those who “offend any race or religion in the performance of obscene or indecent plays, scenes, acts or shows in theaters, fairs, or any other place."
The 20th City Council of General Santos City had also declared drag performer Pura Luka Vega persona non grata a day after Floridablanca’s declaration.