World renowned for award winning films and viral beauty transformations, it’s no surprise that out of the many queer icons of the country, Paolo was chosen to be the host of Drag Race Philippines. “It feels amazing to be the Rupaul – the RuPao! – of Drag Race Philippines,” he says. The role is monumental, pushing queer culture further into the mainstream and strengthening the foundation for acceptance, but Paolo turns the spotlight away from himself. “Pambansang bayani ba ko? I feel lucky, but of course I shouldn’t get all of the credit. We have to think of all of the pioneer drag queens in the country.” As he says this, he looks at a modern example in the form of Minty Fresh, one of the contestants in the pioneer season and his makeup artist for the day.

The country still has a way to go before we can say that people have fully accepted and embraced the queer people in our community, but Paolo believes that we’re heading in the right direction. “Of course hindi pa tayo fully accepted, but it’s constantly reaching that point. Hello, we have Drag Race nga! It’s a big indication that we’re headed there.”

As the world turns its eyes on the local franchise, Paolo wants to showcase nothing less than perfection every week, “The best of the best talaga dapat yung winners. Syempre, this is an international show!” When asked how he provides advice as a mentor and as a motherly figure, clear shock takes over his face. “Motherly? How dare you!”, he screams and laughs before continuing, “It comes with age. It’s natural if you’re not selfish to impart whatever wisdom you have. People can be selfish at hindi ka tutulungan kasi gusto nilang sila lang [yung magaling], but I want us to uplift and improve each other.”

There’s never a dull moment on the main stage as gracing the judge’s panel with him are RuPaul’s Drag Race star Jiggly Caliente and TV personality KaladKaren, with the duo completing his fairytale fantasy. “Parang sila yung step sisters at ako yung fairy godmother,” he pauses before changing his mind, “no, ako yung evil queen!”

Similar to every other art form, drag may look pretty from a distance, but upon closer inspection, you’ll find a deeper meaning that lies beneath the surface. It’s a personal yet publicized experience of discovering yourself and your inner fire. Paolo describes it as a way for you to be fabulous and larger than life. “You can do things that you normally wouldn’t or couldn’t do. It’s like a super power!” Channeling this power is important, as it frees you to be who you want to be. He provides us all with some advice, “Live as your authentic self and don’t apologize for who you are.”