Pura Luka Vega jailed in Manila over ‘Ama Namin’ drag performance, believes arrest unjust

Amadeus Fernando Pagente or Pura Luka Vega, was arrested on Wednesday, October 4, in Manila over ‘Ama Namin’ (Our Father) drag performance. 

But the artist tells media the arrest is unjust, and he was surprised when police came to his door to serve the warrant.

This is months after his controversial video that went viral showing him performing an Ama Namin remix at a local bar with a cheering crowd while wearing a costume inspired by the Black Nazarene.  

This was criticized by religious groups and politicians.

Judge Czarina Villanueva of the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 36 issued the warrant of arrest to the 33-year-old, with a recommended bail of P72,000, for violation of Immoral Doctrines, Obscene Publications and Exhibitions, and Indecent Shows of the Revised Penal Code Article 201.

The artist stands by his belief that drag is only a form of storytelling and said he had always been open to discussing his side when people might have been offended. 

His lawyer is preparing the bail and responses to the cases filed against him, including moves by local government units in the country, including Manila, declaring him persona non grata. - Madonna T.  Virola