When has a queer person ever headlined a pageant with such significant impact, especially in a competition celebrating women, where the majority of viewers—the queer community—find their interest and inspiration? Well, Universe, it is indeed Summertime!
At the recent Miss Universe Philippines pageant, Marina Summers, known for mothering her stint on Drag Race Philippines Season 1 and Drag Race UK vs. The World, graced the MUPH stage with a dynamic opening performance of her song “Amafilipina.” Her confident stride exuded Sasha Fierce-like energy, complemented by her striking red ensemble that radiated through the screens. Despite annual criticisms, the cutting-edge stage design added to the visual spectacle, marking a new milestone for the franchise. As the “Filipina Winnah,” Marina proudly represented the queer community, her mere presence made a powerful statement that will go a long way in many years to come.
Sun-sational: It's Summers' Season
After her well-received season on Drag Race UK vs. The World and now venturing on a global tour, her name is blazing to the peak like the highest heat index. She’s not just carving a name for herself anymore since she has cemented her status as one of the Filipino drag queens who bring outright excellence to everything she does.
Having graced MUPH, especially with a performance like the one she delivered, she opened the competition with an unforgettable display of confidence and excellence that ignited the crowd. Whether she took her slayage pills or it’s simply innate in her—not that we’re surprised—Marina Summers has truly made her mark. It’s Marina Summers’ world, and we live in it.
Filipina Winnah, Queer Winner
Seeing Marina, a proud member of the queer community, deliver such a remarkable performance left many people emotional. For every queer individual, witnessing someone like her confidently take the main stage of a pageant so beloved by many, especially the LGBTQIA+ community, felt like a fever dream. Without doubt, her presence inspired every queer Filipino kid to keep chasing their dreams, instilling a sense of pride and visibility in them.
With her performance, it felt like the ‘Filipina Winnah‘ proudly waved the banner of the queer community with such confidence that she commanded everyone’s attention. Her presence, driven by a mission to spark confidence in every queer individual, makes her not only a ‘Filipina Winnah’ but also a symbol of what it means to be a true champion in life. Her artistry, determined gaze, and passionate heart deliver excellence in whatever she does. Simply by being herself, Marina Summers makes every Filipino queer person feel visible and recognized. Her fellow drag sister, Ms. Eva Le Queen, can’t help but magnify what Marina is doing, “To have seen this live is just mind-blowing bilang isang baklitang lumaki sa beauty pageants. Gays have always been the backbone of the pageant world, but this is the first time to see one of us up there. Thank you for making a lot of our dreams come true tonight.”
From being a steadfast supporter of pageantry in the country, where the queer community has long been the backbone of the franchise, to opening the show and having the privilege to introduce herself at the microphone just like the candidates do, Marina Summers has undoubtedly shaped the future trajectory for the queer community and the industry’s perception of them. Her victory is a significant milestone, and we can say, “Thank you, Universe!” Marina Summers’ win is also a win for the whole queer community.
“This is for every baklang chikiting that dreamed of saying this iconic line. Oras na para tayo naman ang rumampa,” Marina proudly writes in her recent post.
