Chariz Solomon became emotional while listening to the struggles and triumphs of drag queens Precious Paula Nicole, Brigiding, and Viñas DeLuxe—collectively known as the Divine Divas—as they shared how society's acceptance of their art has gradually expanded.
During a recent appearance on "Your Honor," the three drag artists reflected on the changing landscape for performers like themselves in the Philippines.
"I'm so proud and grateful that we became drag queens during this time when drag is more accepted in the Philippines," said Viñas. "I remember in school, I really wanted to perform on the main stage but they wouldn't allow me because I was in drag. It wasn't as accepted back then. But now we're invited to different schools that have drag competitions alongside their intramurals. Before it was just cheer dance competitions—now there are drag competitions alongside dance and singing contests."
Viñas added that they're now invited to speak about the deeper contributions drag makes to the community.
"It feels good that people are taking it seriously now. It's not just entertainment to laugh at," Viñas said.
Brigiding expressed gratitude to the drag artists who came before them and fought for the art form's advancement.
"They really went out of their houses. They were mocked, discriminated against. Usually their families didn't accept them because that's how bad the perception of gay people was back then. But they fought for their performance and their love for the craft," Brigiding shared.
Precious recalled her early days when no bars would accept her.
"Back then, drag queens weren't really the main attraction... I used to perform without getting paid. My friends and family would ask me, 'Why are you doing that? Are you earning anything from it?'"
Eventually, Precious appeared as a guest on several television programs.
"I look back at that time when no one believed in me—even I almost didn't believe in what I was doing. But I'm thankful and grateful I didn't let go of what I imagined back then," she recounted.
Precious also reflected on their struggles during the pandemic when bars closed and they lost their platforms.
"But at least we didn't give up. Because we knew that when the world opened again, we would be accepted again. That's when Drag Race started."
Precious expressed pride that the drag industry in the Philippines has expanded significantly.
"It's not just something you see in bars anymore. Brands trust us now—there are commercials, movies, music videos, songs, singers, concerts. From one-man shows, now we have a team," Precious said.
Hearing about the Divine Divas' perseverance and success moved Chariz Solomon to tears.
"It's heartbreaking because... sometimes there really comes a time when no one believes in you. That's why it's important to love yourself. You hold on to that hope. That little light you have. Even if it's like your Christmas lights where only one is working. 'I can still make that work. There's just one that's come loose,'" Chariz said.
"For everyone, what's important is that you really believe in yourself and everything else will follow," Chariz continued.
Precious Paula Nicole was the first Drag Race Superstar in the Philippines, winning the pilot season of "Drag Race Philippines" in 2022. Viñas and Brigiding also participated in the first season and later competed in "Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale," where Brigiding was declared the winner.