Pura Luka Vega asks for funds amid legal battles following 'Ama Namin' performance
Pura Luka Vega is seeking financial assistance for their legal battles following their controversial Ama Namin performance, which led to several local governments declaring them persona non grata and church leaders filing criminal complaints against them.
"WE’RE GOING TO COURT," the drag artist said in an Instagram post on Aug. 24. "And we need your help more than ever."
The artist, born Amadeus Fernando Pagente, shared a QR code for donors, which they said will go to transportation and food for their court dates in September.
"Please add in the notes FOR LUKA when sending your support," they added. "Airfunding donations are currently postponed and we’re asking you to spread this word."
Pagente has been in the headlines since July after they were seen at a bar performing a punk rock version of Ama Namin, the central prayer of the Catholic church.
Many netizens took the drag queen to task, with some calling it "offensive" and "blasphemous."
They were declared persona non grata over time in 12 Philippine municipalities, namely, General Santos City; Floridablanca, Pampanga; Laguna; City of Manila; Bukidnon Province; Toboso, Negros Occidental; Nueva Ecija; Cebu City; Cagayan De Oro City; Occidental Mindoro; Dinagat Islands; and Coron, Palawan.
To be declared as persona non grata means they're no longer welcome in these places, though doesn't mean they'll be prevented or arrested while visiting.
The Philippines for Jesus Movement, a Christian group coalition, meanwhile filed a case against Pagente for alleged violation of Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code. It imposes penalties on those involved in "immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions and indecent shows."
The Hijos Del Nazareno Central, which represents devotees of the Black Nazarene, also filed a separate complaint against them, plus alleged violations of the Cyber Crime Prevention Act of 2012.
