Amadeus Fernando Magallanes Pagente, better known by his stage name Pura Luka Vega, is a Filipino drag artist who gained widespread attention in 2023 with a controversial drag performance.
As a contestant on a reality TV show Pull the BlackPura Luka Vega performed a remix of the Tagalog version of The Lord’s Prayer while dressed as Jesus, combining religious imagery with drag performance art.
The performance received mixed reactions from the public, with some praising it as a bold representation of LGBTQ+ identity, while others criticized it as offensive.
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- Full name: Amadeus Fernando Magallanes Pagente
- Stage Name: Pura Luka Vega
- Date of birth: February 27, 1990
- Age: 34 years old
- Place of birth: Philippines
- Nationality: Philippines
- Occupation: TV presenter
- Height: Unknown
- Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Magallanes Pagente
- Siblings: Unknown
- Spouse: Unknown
- Children: Unknown
- Relationship: Single
- Net worth: Unknown
Early life and education
Amadeus Fernando Magallanes Pagente was born on February 27, 1990 in the Philippines. Raised by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Magallanes Pagente, not much is known about their family or whether they have siblings.
Pagente attended the Philippine Normal University for her undergraduate studies, majoring in education. Her academic background may have helped her develop strong communication skills and an understanding of human behavior, which played a major role in her drag career. After graduating, Pagente taught for four years in Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte.
Pagente’s ethnicity is a mix of Filipino and British heritage, their mother being Filipino and their father being British. Their specific religion has not been revealed.
Career
Pagente’s drag journey began during their college years in Manila, after being inspired by a female cosplayer dressed as the Joker. This experience led them to explore gender expression through cross-dressing. Their first notable drag competition saw them win while dressed as Marie Antoinette with a severed head—a memorable performance that showcased their daring and creativity.
Their passion for drag grew, eventually turning into a full-fledged career. Pagente gained significant recognition as Pura Luka Vega after appearing on Pull the Blacka popular reality television competition. Known for incorporating elements of Filipino culture and mythology into her performances, Vega has become a prominent figure in the drag community.
In 2023, Vega portrayed Jesus Christ in a remix of The Lord’s Prayer The performance sparked public debate. While some saw the performance as a powerful expression of LGBTQ+ visibility, others saw it as disrespectful. The incident brought Vega widespread attention and cemented their reputation as a provocative and daring artist.
In addition to drag, Pura Luka Vega has also dabbled in acting, modeling, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Their work has made them important voices in the LGBTQ+ community, encouraging others to accept themselves for who they are.
Social media
Personal life
Pura Luka Vega identifies as nonbinary, gender non-conforming, or genderqueer and uses they/them pronouns but is comfortable with any pronoun. A private individual, they have kept details about their personal life and relationships out of the public eye.
Net worth
While Pura Luka Vega’s exact net worth is unknown, her growing popularity as a drag performer has opened up many opportunities in performances, merchandise, and endorsement deals. However, Vega’s art has also faced legal challenges, especially when it comes to religious sentiments.
