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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Court clears Pura Luka Vega in 'Ama Namin' performance case

Court clears Pura Luka Vega in 'Ama Namin' performance case

Published Jun 11, 2025 06:52 pm

At A Glance

  • The drag performer, known for pushing the boundaries of art and faith, celebrated the verdict online.
Drag artist Pura Luka Vega, aka Amadeus Fernando Pagente, has been acquitted by the Manila Regional Trial Court over charges of “indecent or immoral plays/shows” under Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
The charges stemmed from Vega’s viral July 2023 performance where he appeared as a Jesus-like figure while dancing to a remix of “Ama Namin” (The Lord’s Prayer).
The complaint was filed by religious group Hijos Del Nazareno, who called it offensive to Catholic sensibilities.
In its ruling, the court said the prosecution failed to meet the required burden of proof, though it advised Vega to be “circumspect” in their artistic choices out of consideration for “social coexistence.” Vega’s ₱72,000 bail was also ordered returned.
The drag performer, known for pushing the boundaries of art and faith, celebrated the verdict online. “Thank you for this wonderful news. One more case left. Laban lang,” Vega posted on X (formerly Twitter), later adding: “Matapang kong masasabing nanaig ang hustisya... Patuloy tayong lumaban at i-claim natin ang karapatang maging tunay na tayo. Walang kyeme!”
Vega, also an advocacy officer at Rainbow Rights Philippines, dedicated the win to the LGBTQIA+ community while affirming respect for faith and freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, Hijos Del Nazareno spokesperson Alex Irasga said the group respects the court’s decision but stands firm in defending religious values: “We continue to hope for greater understanding and respect for sacred beliefs.”
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