A beloved K-drama gets a fresh Filipino flavor as Ashtine Olviga and David Licauco team up for the first time.
One of South Korea’s most beloved romantic series is getting a Filipino makeover.
Viva One is bringing the hit K-drama “Fight For My Way” to Filipino audiences this November 20, marking the streaming platform’s first-ever Korean series adaptation.
Taking on the lead roles are “Nation’s Mutya” and 2026 Manila International Film Festival Best Actress Ashtine Olviga and “Pambansang Ginoo” David Licauco, who will share the screen for the first time in a pairing that brings a fresh energy to the beloved friends-to-lovers story.
The upcoming series also marks Ashtine’s much-awaited return to Viva One and David’s first major project with the platform.
From K-Drama Hit to Filipino Adaptation
Originally starring Park Seo-joon and Kim Ji-won, the 2017 Korean series “Fight For My Way” became a pop-culture phenomenon, earning multiple awards at the 2017 KBS Drama Awards and further establishing its stars as major names in Korean entertainment.
At its heart, the story follows two childhood friends who refuse to give up on their dreams despite the challenges of adulthood.
For the Filipino adaptation, the iconic characters Dong-man and Ae-ra become Hanz and Aira.
Hanz dreams of becoming a professional fighter, while Aira hopes to become a TV announcer. However, financial and family struggles force both of them to put their ambitions on hold.
As they navigate the realities of adulthood, the two begin pushing each other to chase their dreams once again. But as their friendship grows stronger, they may discover that what they feel for each other goes beyond friendship.
Ashtine Olviga as Aira
Ashtine Olviga takes on the role of Aira, a determined and confident young woman who dreams of becoming a TV announcer.
For now, Aira works behind an information desk at a department store, but she refuses to let her current circumstances define her future. Her determination to pursue her dream becomes one of the driving forces of the story.
Ashtine has quickly become one of the Philippines’ most promising young stars. Dubbed the “Nation’s Mutya,” she rose to prominence through the hit series Ang Mutya ng Section E before headlining Viva Originals: Ashtine.
She also starred in the films Minamahal and Manila’s Finest, with the latter earning her an award-winning performance. Most recently, she celebrated another milestone with her first solo concert, Love Like Ashtine
David Licauco as Hanz
Meanwhile, David Licauco steps into the role of Hanz, a passionate and resilient former taekwondo prodigy who is determined to find his way back to his dreams.
Once considered a promising athlete, Hanz now works as a pest-control staff member to make ends meet. Despite the setbacks, his dream of becoming a professional fighter remains alive.
David, known to fans as the “Pambansang Ginoo,” became widely recognized for his portrayal of Fidel in the hit historical drama Maria Clara at Ibarra. The role helped establish him as one of the country’s sought-after leading men.
Now, David gets the opportunity to explore a different kind of character as Hanz—one who must overcome life's obstacles while rediscovering his passion and purpose.
Together, David and Ashtine will put their own spin on Hanz and Aira, bringing a distinctly Filipino flavor to the story of two longtime friends whose dreams—and feelings—begin to change.
Meet the “Crazy Fantastic Four”
Adding more heart and drama to the story are McCoy de Leon and Aubrey Caraan, who portray Hanz and Aira’s longtime best friends.
Together with David and Ashtine, their characters form the “Crazy Fantastic Four”—four young adults determined to pursue their career goals despite the challenges standing in their way.
McCoy plays Manny, the so-called “brain” of the group who works at a home shopping network. The character is based on Joo-man from the original Korean series.
Known for his versatility as an actor and performer, McCoy has appeared in acclaimed projects including Deleter and Salvageland.
Meanwhile, Aubrey Caraan portrays Sally, the sweet and dependable friend who is also Manny’s loving partner.
Aubrey is known for her role as Sam in Viva One’s University Series and for starring in the Filipino adaptation of the Korean film Sunny.
Directed by Crisanto B. Aquino
Bringing this Filipino adaptation to life is award-winning filmmaker Crisanto B. Aquino, who has previously directed Viva One adaptations including Seducing Drake Palma and Dating Alys Perez.
With a story about chasing dreams, navigating adulthood, and discovering love in unexpected places, the Filipino “Fight For My Way” aims to introduce the beloved premise to a new generation while giving it a distinctly local identity.
With Ashtine Olviga and David Licauco leading an exciting new tandem alongside McCoy de Leon and Aubrey Caraan, the series promises a mix of romance, friendship, comedy, and the struggles of pursuing one’s dreams.
“Fight For My Way” premieres November 20, 2026, exclusively on Viva One.
Download the Viva One app and subscribe now to be among the first to watch every episode when it becomes available.
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