Black Nazarene devotees sue drag queen

MANILA, Philippines — Drag queen Pura Luka Vega is facing another criminal complaint filed by religious groups offended by his viral performance when he dressed up as Jesus Christ and danced to a punk rock version of the Catholic hymn “Ama Namin” or “Our Father.”

The Hijos del Nazareno (HDN) Central and Balangay Officers of Quiapo Church, groups representing devotees of the Black Nazarene, yesterday filed a complaint against Vega, whose real name is Amadeus Fernando Pagente, before the Manila prosecutor’s office for violating Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code.

Article 201 penalizes “immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions as well as indecent shows.”

The establishment owner where Pagente performed and others who joined his performance were also charged.

“As a Catholic congregation and devotees of the Black Nazarene, Vega’s acts constitute a direct attack on Jesus Christ. His acts cut painfully deep right into the core of our faith and belief, wounding us spiritually, morally and mentally,” the complaint read.

HDN central technical adviser Alex Irasga said they would drop the complaint if Vega will make a public apology and “apologize to Jesus Christ.”

“As of now he remains arrogant and claims that he did nothing wrong… We would bring him here to Quiapo Church so he could ask for forgiveness from the Black Nazarene, whom he offended, and the priests. If he does all of these, who are we not to forgive him?” Irasga said.

The Manila city council has declared Vega persona non grata for what it deemed to be his blasphemous acts. — Ghio Ong