Pura Luka Vega declared 'persona non grata' in Bohol

TAGBILARAN CITY - Amadeus Fernando Pagente, also known as Pura Luka Vega, has been declared persona non grata in Bohol province.

Pagente is now unwelcome and prohibited from entering the province following a resolution approved on Tuesday afternoon by Bohol Provincial Council headed by Vice Governor Victor Balite.

"The portrayal of religious figures in a manner that is disrespectful or offensive to the religious sentiments of individuals and communities is not conducive to promoting harmony and mutual respect within our society," read the resolution that was introduced by board member Tommy Abapo and was approved en masse.

"The Province of Bohol values its diverse population and aims to uphold respect for all religious beliefs, traditions, and practices," the resolution also said.

Pura Luka Vega, a 33-year-old entertainer of Dipolog City in Zamboanga Del Norte, drew flak from Catholics who accused him of blasphemy for performing a remix of “Ama Namin” dressed as Jesus.

The entertainer was also declared persona non grata in several other areas, including the provinces of Laguna, Nueva Ecija, and Cagayan De Oro.

“As leaders of our province, it is our duty to uphold the values of respect and dignity towards our fellow individuals. We should not tolerate any attacks or disrespect towards our cultures and beliefs,” Laguna board member Christian Niño Lajara wrote. — BAP, GMA Integrated News