STATEMENT OF MAYOR ANTONINO "TONY" CALIXTO ON THE LADY GAGA CONCERT "BORN THIS WAY"

Based on the report of the inspection team I sent to the Lady Gaga concert last night, we find no violations of the special conditions of the Special Permit we issued last May 16 to the promoters of the concert, Ovation Productions. 

There was also neither nudity nor even holy symbols present.   

Admittedly, some of the statements and choreography were provocative but the content and presentation taken all together can be considered as part of an artist’s expressions and therefore are considered part of the realm of protected speech and expression as guaranteed by no less than the constitution.  

Moreover, during the concert, she did not denigrate or offend any particular religion or belief. Lady Gaga was, in fact, quoted to have said during the concert that “We may have many differences but we only have one Jesus.” 

Therefore, the City Government of Pasay sees no compelling or legal reason to disallow the second concert from proceeding.

NEWS RELEASE By: Pasay City- Public Information Office

Tuesday, May 22, 2012