Drag performer Pura Luka Vega arrested by Manila police

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 4) — Controversial drag performer Pura Luka Vega was arrested by Manila Police District operatives in his home in Sta. Cruz, Manila on Wednesday afternoon.

MPD spokesperson Maj. Philipp Ines confirmed to CNN Philippines that the drag performer, whose real name is Amadeus Fernando Pagante, is currently being held at the Santa Cruz Police Station.

According to MPD’s report, an arrest warrant was issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 36 Manila for violation of Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, with a recommended bail of ₱72,000.

Religious group Philippines for Jesus Movement earlier sued Vega for his rock rendition of “Ama Namin," or the Lord’s Prayer, which was denounced by many as “blasphemous.”

Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code provides the penalty for «immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions and indecent shows.»

The drag artist was also declared persona non-grata in various cities and provinces including Manila, Bukidnon, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Floridablanca in Pampanga, and Toboso, Negros Occidental.