For the first time, actress-singer Ashtine Olviga opened up about her humble beginnings in showbiz, recalling the days she worked as an extra in GMA Network dramas while chasing her dream.
“Nag-eekstra po ako sa GMA-7, sa Nita Negrita saka sa isang show na kasama si Kris Bernal. Tapos nag-acting workshop po ako sa ABS-CBN pero hindi po ako nakukuha,” she shared.
It took 14 years of persistence, small roles, and countless auditions before Ashtine finally found her place as one of Viva Films’ rising stars. Today, she is not only making waves in acting and music, but is also stepping into the world of brand ambassadorship.
Recently, Ashtine was officially launched as the newest face of Japanese restaurant brand Botejyu, leading its mASHarap campaign for Donburi Rice Bowls.
In a playful commercial directed by Paul Basinillo, she is seen pausing between call times to enjoy her favorite Donburi—an image that mirrors her real-life comfort in Japanese rice bowls as a quick reset from the demands of her busy schedule.
“Japanese food is my comfort lane, especially rice bowls,” Ashtine said. “On long days, a Donburi is that quick reset I look forward to. It’s warm, flavorful, and it powers me up without slowing me down. That’s why MASHARAP felt so me.”
Vicente Raphael del Rosario IV, Viva Foods President and COO, praised her energy and relatability: “Ashtine brings a joyful, genuine energy that mirrors how Filipinos enjoy Japanese rice bowls—casual, comforting, and always delectable.”
Basinillo, who has worked with Ashtine on both the Botejyu ad and the sold-out VivaRkada concert, noted her passion and stage presence: “Kapag si Ash na ang nasa stage, ang lakas ng response ng audience. Ganun din sa social media. Madali siyang makasunod sa lahat ng instructions, and she enjoys what she’s doing. Her passion reminds me of Sarah Geronimo’s drive.”
With best-selling Donburi favorites like Tender Pork Katsu, Diced Teriyaki Beef Garlic Steak, Hokkaido-Style Grilled BBQ Pork, and Prawn Tempura, Botejyu has long been a crowd favorite. With Ashtine now leading the campaign, the brand celebrates not just good food, but also the joy of savoring life’s wins—big or small.
From her struggling-star days to her breakthrough in film and endorsements, Ashtine Olviga continues to prove that success comes to those who stay true, passionate, and patient. For her, every achievement is sweeter when shared with family, fans, and the people who never stopped believing.
