Peabo and other drag performers discuss why they love La Union and consider it a haven
It’s a known fact that La Union has long been admired for being an excellent surfing destination with a unique laid-back flavor. In recent years, the charming province in the country’s northern zone has obtained a new image as a booming haven for the LGBTQIA+ community. This significant upturn in pink tourism turned its dynamic nightlife into becoming more colorful and inclusive.
The proximity to Manila is one of Elyu’s magnetic pulls. We all need a break from the chaos of a big city, and nature, particularly the beach, somehow flicks a switch to reset for us to feel refreshed and anew.
Myx Chanel expounds: “As an overall workaholic and raketera, super sanay ako sa fast- paced life in Manila. Kaya super naging love ko ang Elyu kasi it’s the exact opposite. Here in Elyu, hindi tumatakbo ‘yung oras. Ang oras mo lang is sun up and sun down. It’s become a magical place for me kasi I’ve made good memories here with friends. I’ve traveled here alone and enjoyed the place. Masaya na I get to perform this time around.”
Pioneering queer events nationwide, Kris Nuevo Events has firmly established itself in Elyu as the stage for drag artists and queer DJs. For this year’s Labor Day weekend, it produced a two-day party extravaganza featuring the most booked queer entertainers in the country: Marina Summers, Eva Le Queen, Prince, Peabo, Myx Chanel, Matilduh, Empy Radora, DJ Deej Diaz, DJ Antoine, and DJ Cal Seosanto.
“I find La Union enjoyable because ‘pag nandito ako, parang hindi ako nagwo-work,” shares Empy Radora. “Kapag nasa Manila ka performing, it feels like work. Nakaka– heal din kasi may times na pwede magpunta ka lang sa dagat to relax.”
“It’s a lovely place! It’s a perfect place for friends, loved ones, and family,” says Drag Den runner-up Shewarma. She affirms La Union to be a safe space, and this contributes to bringing about a welcoming embrace to LGBTQIA+ travelers. “‘Yung mga nasa Nectar, nasa La Union din. Bonding sabay-sabay dito,” she adds.
The most in-demand host in the queer nightlife scene and the face of Poison Wednesdays at Nectar Nightclub, Peabo, shares her Elyu experience with us.
What went down during your latest Elyu stay?
I hosted the Jungle Queer Party. On the first day, there was a lip-sync challenge for Save Sexy, headed by Niccolo Cosme. Three queens out of drag competed, then ayun, dragdagulan na sila sa song na “Physical” by Dua Lipa. The second day was the big event: Jungle Queer Party, an annual event at Camp Avenue. Who performed best? Who else? I hold the mic.
What made this gig different from others? Was there something special about Elyu?
Wearing heels on the sand. La Union is a beautiful place. Good people, good food.
How did the beach vibe differ from your usual hosting setting?
Most of the Poison Wednesdays crowd went to the event, so there’s not much difference in the energy and vibes. ‘Yun nga lang, mas maaga nagsa-start ang walwalan and maaga rin natatapos. 12:30 a.m. naka-fade under na ang music. Sa shore na lang tatambay, emote-emote.
Were there any unexpected moments during the parties that made it extra unforgettable?
DJ Daine of Hara played “Bakit Nga Ba Mahal Kita” ni Roselle Nava.
There are unique places that draw us back every time. How has Elyu become this magical place to you?
I can mix business with pleasure here. The locals are so nice. Coming from a breakup, it’s healing. You can feel the tranquility. You can hear the waves. The food and nightlife ganaps are enjoyable. So, visit La Union, your home away from home.
Catch Peabo from June 3 to 4 and from June 17 to 18 at Hara, La Union.
