Maricel Soriano parodies a drag reality competition in a YouTube video as her drag persona, Kinang Inay.
The Diamond Star’s face is beat for the gods in a viral photo she posted on her socials to promote her vlog. Here, she is deliciously painted by Drag Den contestant, Shewarma, to serve us the Ariana x Gaga fantasy we didn’t know we needed in our lives. Seeing Maricel Soriano, or Inay Marya as many lovingly call her, in drag made our gay hearts grow wings and fly out of our chests. Sure it was unexpected, but it also felt like an inescapable duty—a fated gesture to make her fans happy.
In the video, which spoofs Drag Race Philippines and the upcoming Drag Den, she competes against her “anak” and Drag Race Philippines top four finalist, Xilouete. The challenge? A photo shoot showdown they called Pic Pak Vogue and a lip-sync battle of the veteran actress’s famous lines. They also talked about Xilouete’s Drag Race journey, the depth of their relationship, and how their friendship started. Fun fact: Xilouete worked as the stylist for the Philippine entertainment legend’s television drama, Vietnam Rose, which aired in 2005.
Maricel Soriano, The Diamond Drag Star
Despite many earnest attempts, it is inexplicably difficult to communicate how iconic female entertainers evoke an inclination toward the LGBTQIA+ experience. Maricel Soriano’s work and allyship have made a lasting impact on our queer culture. Perhaps it’s her larger-than-life characters or her campy level of taray. Maybe it’s because of her dagger-like movie lines that leave an imprint on our sassy hearts, just as her now legendary slaps are in Filipino film and television. How can one forget her “Ayoko ng masikip, ayoko ng walang tubig, ayoko ng mabaho, ayoko ng walang pagkain, ayoko ng putik!” from Kaya Kong Abutin Ang Langit and her “Get out of my house! I don’t need a parasite!” from Separada? How about her signature dance moves to the song, Body Dancer? Go see it for yourselves and be enamored by the eternal grace, grit, and glamour of the one and only Maricel Soriano.
One thing’s for sure: strong women empower us. There’s a unique kind of fascination and amusement only we can understand that only icons like Maricel Soriano can give. Thank you, Inay! You can Terry-Terry us anytime.
Watch the vaklang-vakla vlog below.
