Inside a vibrant four-walled room in the heart of Makati, UNWND Boutique Hotel lit up with magic on August 13, 2025, as it kicked off the premiere viewing party for the newly released season of Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale. Happening every Wednesday at 6 p.m. for the rest of the season, the event celebrates how the LGBTQ+ community is embraced and welcomed in society. Each week, a special drag queen guest takes the stage with dazzling performances, showcasing their talent, artistry, and one-of-a-kind flair.
“The event is a viewing party of the newly released season of Drag Race Philippines for Slaysian Royale. This is their premiere and we’re hosting a viewing party in celebration of the premiere,” said Gabby Matabang, Events Marketing Specialist of Araw Hospitality Group, which organized the celebration.
Drag Race Philippines is the dazzling local spin on the iconic American franchise RuPaul’s Drag Race. Hosted and head-judged by Paolo Ballesteros, with Kaladkaren and Jiggly Caliente as co-judges and hosts, the show brings world-class glamour to the Philippine stage. For the Slaysian Royale series, Maxie and Jimbo join the judging panel, making the competition fiercer than ever.
From fierce runway looks and jaw-dropping lip-sync battles to acting, comedy, and more, each episode is a celebration of creativity and self-expression. More than just a competition, the series highlights the queens’ uniqueness, confidence, and charisma—proving that drag is not just art, it’s a statement.
As an LGBTQ+ member herself, Matabang shared how the cause behind the event is deeply personal: “The community is really close to my heart, and as much as possible, I want to have venues for them where they feel safe and included.” He added, “It’s always what we call, ‘HINDI KA BAKLA LANG, TAO KA RIN.’”
The viewing party drew a lively crowd of drag enthusiasts and LGBTQ+ supporters, filling the room with cheers and shouts as they rooted for their favorite queens. Even though the competition played only on screen, the audience felt every moment, united by the advocacy of acceptance and pride.
With free entrance and two more planned viewing locations near Poblacion, Makati, Wednesdays promise to be a bigger celebration of drag, diversity, and community. In this space, everyone has the right to belong, shine, and slay. Shantay, you slay! Shantay, you stay!
