NAIA has been crowned as the first Drag Supreme of Prime Video’s hit Filipino reality competition show Drag Den with Manila Luzon before a live audience of “drag addicts” at Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier in Taguig City.
NAIA bested co-finalists Shewarma and Maria Christina, who placed first runner-up and second runner-up respectively. The final “dragdagulan” to the crown involved a national costume round and a swimwear round with a lip sync battle.
Ultimately, NAIA impressed the judges during the question-and-answer portion. Asked what is the one thing that makes her the true Drag Supreme, she answers, “Coming here to this competition, I did not come here with the biggest budget or the best gowns and the best wigs. I only came here with love and passion for drag.”
“And when I auditioned, I knew that Drag Den was for the underdogs. And I have that quality of growth that I have exhibited ever since Day 1. I’ve stumbled and I’ve gone through so much hardship, especially in this competition. And Manila, you’ve opened my eyes to what drag could truly be. It is freedom of expression and I can’t be happier to be here,” she adds.
“I hope that my story inspires young queer artists who are afraid of putting themselves out there because I was afraid. But thank you Manila for giving me this platform because I was able to prove that growth is what you need to become the next Drag Supreme. I hope I made you proud. Thank you, Manila.”
Hosted and executive produced by “Drag Lord” Manila Luzon, the eight-episode reality show caught the eyes of many with fashion statements and unique looks that capture the zeitgeist of the Filipino society. It also featured drag queens – the so-called members of the “drag cartel” – OA, Aries Night, Barbie-Q, Pura Luka Vega, and Lady Gagita. Co-hosting the program were “Drag Dealer” Nicole Cordoves, and “Drag Runner” Sassa Gurl.
Produced by CS Studios, series creator and director Rod Singh and Antoinette Jadaone of Project 8 Projects, all episodes of Drag Den with Manila Luzon are now streaming on Prime Video.
Witness the Grand Coronation moment here.