CALLING it blasphemy and disrespect, several senators lambasted the controversial viral video of drag queen Pura Luka Vega where the latter was singing the holy prayer of Catholics Ama Namin, also known as Lord’s Prayer.

Senate President Miguel Zubiri ,who admitted his disappointment, described the viral video as blasphemous.

“In my opinion, this is the height of the misuse and abuse of our freedom of expression that borders on criminal activity,” Zubiri said.

He further said that the performance of Vega offends the sensibility of Catholic Christians in the country and dangerously went beyond the boundary of freedom of speech and expression.

Zubiri threatened to charge Pura Luka Vega under Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code which clearly states that offending a race or religion in the performance of indecent plays, scenes, acts, or shows is punishable under the law.

Both Senators JV Ejercito and Sherwin Gatchalian described the video as blasphemous and overboard.

Ejercito said this should not be tolerated, citing the fact that prayer is not entertainment nor a costume party, and respect must be given accordingly.

Zubiri, who admitted to be a devout Catholic, said that this act merits condemnation by all religions whose practice of their faith should not be mocked or spoofed for theatrical laughs.

Senator Risa Hontiveros described the incident as “regrettable.”

“As a woman of faith, I admit I personally find this regrettable. Alam ko madami ding miyembro ng LGBTQIA+ community, persons of faith among them, find this regrettable,” she said.

She also cautioned against the use of this incident to deny rights and protections to a community that has long been marginalized and excluded.

AUTHOR PROFILE

PS Jun M. Sarmiento