St4rt your engines! Paolo Ballesteros teases 'Drag Race Philippines' season 4

Comedian, actor and host Paolo Ballesteros, fondly called as “Mama Pao,” is back in the "werk-room" for the fourth season of “Drag Race Philippines,” the local version of the American reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

The show’s official Instagram account recently teased fans with a selfie from its host, alluding that production is gearing up once again.

In the post, Ballesteros, 43, is seen smiling in front of the werk-room entrance, featuring gold sequin walls, sunburst patterns, and blue-and-red curtains inspired by the Philippine flag. The caption, “St4rt your engines!” could mean that Season 4 is on its way to WOW Presents Plus, the franchise’s global streaming platform.

Season 3, which premiered in August 2024, featured 11 contestants competing in challenges centered on Filipino drag, humor, and pop culture. The previous season ended with Maxie Andreison winning the title.

Runner up to Maxie was Khianna, while Angel and Tita Baby were also part of the top four. Versex was named Miss Congeniality.

The official premiere of Season 4 has yet to be revealed. There is also no word if last season's hosts and judges will be back.

Ballesteros serves as host and main judge of the reality competition. People first took notice of him when he first co-hosted on the noontime variety show “Eat Bulaga!” 

He later earned international recognition for his makeup transformations of celebrities and public figures. His filmography includes the critically acclaimed “Die Beautiful,” where his character was a transgender woman. His portrayal won him the Best Actor award at the 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival.