The Philippine drag community is mourning the loss of 27-year-old Misua, a queen from Cagayan de Oro who was set to appear in the upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines.”
In a statement, World of Wonder, producers of “Drag Race” franchise, said, “We are heartbroken to share that Misua, a talented queen set to appear on Drag Race Philippines passed away in her sleep on April 2.”
Following the announcement, production for the new season has been put on hold. “We have paused production to support our cast/crew during this difficult time,” the statement read.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, & all who loved her.”
We are heartbroken to share that Misua, a talented queen set to appear on Drag Race Philippines passed away in her sleep on April 2.
We have paused production to support our cast/crew during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, & all who loved her. pic.twitter.com/onYp6SRe1y
— World of Wonder (@WorldOfWonder) April 2, 2026
In a separate Facebook post, her family confirmed her passing and identified her as Jayson Ty. “With great sadness, we announce the passing of Jayson Ty on April 2, 2026. Jayson was our dearly loved son, brother, friend, mentor, and most of all, Jayson is a star. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and close friends.”
Fans and fellow drag queens have taken to social media to pay tribute to Misua, sharing messages of grief and remembrance.
“Words fall short for what this unfair world has placed upon us. I still can’t wrap my head around it. I can’t even fathom what it means that you’re not here anymore. How do we make sense of this loss?” fellow CDO queen, Maharlika, wrote.
“I feel so blessed to have met you in this lifetime, to share creative visions, the stage, the spotlight, the art, the brilliance (the libaks)… but more than that, I feel so blessed that I got to experience you. The real you behind the persona, behind THE Misua,” she added.
“Sis dami pa natin plans to move in and conquer the world. I love you son…My forever superstar Misua,” “Drag Race Philippines Season 3” and “Slaysian Royale” queen Khianna, also a CDO queen, tweeted.
Another drag queen who hails from CDO, Hana Beshie, Miss Congeniality of “Drag Race Philippines Season 2,” mourned the loss of Misua.
“PROMISE KO SAYO TUTUPARIN KO LAHAT NG MGA GUSTO MONG GAWIN! Your stay in this world may fall short but I will make sure that your name and your artistry will live on! “I love you so much my oriental fashion doll,” Hana wrote.
“OUR SUPERSTAR,” Drag Race Philippines Season 2″ and “Slaysian Royale” contender Arizona Brandy wrote on Instagram.
“What an unimaginable loss. And a devastating reminder about life and dreams. Rest easy, Queen. We just lost a real deal. Sending prayers and light to all of Misua’s friends and loved ones,” “Drag Race Philippines Season 1” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars” contestant Eva Le Queen said in an Instagram story.
“Drag Den Season 1” contestant Odasha also paid tribute to Misua in an Instagram post.
“ily @themisua pang ilang iyak ko na simula nung nabalitaan ko ang nangyari…” Odasha wrote.
“Laging kong hinihiling na sana nagkaroon ako ng kapatid, at ikaw yung dumating sa buhay ko last year. Pero t****** naman umalis ka kagad. Mahal na mahal kita Misua,” she concluded her post.
Further details about Misua and the continuation of “Drag Race Philippines Season 4” have yet to be announced.
—With Rosette Adel, Janelle Liong