Manila Luzon, Phi Phi O’Hara and 4 other queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race that you probably didn’t know were Filipino
There sure are some shady ladies in this bunch but love them or hate them there’s no keeping a good, or bad, queen down
RuPaul’s Drag Race may be on a quest to find America’s next drag superstar, but it’s often the show’s contestants from the Philippines, or of Filipino descent, that catch our attention and leave us gagging.
Since Ongina landed herself a spot on season one, Filipino queens have continued to make a significant impact, while often proudly representing their heritage on one of the world’s most popular television shows.
Manila Luzon (Karl Westerberg)
We can’t start a Filipino drag list without kicking off with the legendary Manila Luzon. Despite the name, Manila was actually born in the US. Her drag queen name is a play on words of the capital city (Manila) and the largest island (Luzon) of the Philippines, where her mother was born.
Manila has been a firm favourite on the show, appearing in season three, and All Stars seasons one and four. Her most recent All Stars elimination came as a big shock when challenge winner Naomi Smalls sent Manila home for being a strong contender, causing uproar in the Philippines and the world.
Manila still deserves a Drag Race crown, whether it’s now or All Stars season 35.
Most memorable quote: “The thing I have, that you haven't seen on your show is that I'm Asian – and I am taller than 5'2’’!”