Concert and film director Paul Basinillo, who helmed Ashtine Olviga’s new MASHARAP commercial for Japanese restaurant brand Botejyu, had nothing but high praise for the rising star.
Having directed some of the country’s biggest names, including Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo, Basinillo drew a striking comparison between the two artists.
“I’ve handled a lot of artists, mostly the big ones like Sarah Geronimo. Closer to Sarah, I think, yung kanyang humility at pagkatao,” he said. “Every time she performs onstage, nasa kanya yung pinakamalakas na palakpak. Based on our experience with Ashtine, I know she can deliver more than a hundred percent.”
Basinillo, who also worked with Ashtine during the VivaRkada concert at the Araneta Coliseum, added that this commercial will not be her last. “This is not just the first commercial for Ashtine. Gagawa pa tayo ng iba pa para sa kanya. We’re looking forward to that.”
For Ashtine, the comparison to Geronimo is both overwhelming and humbling.
“Hindi ko po alam kasi, personally, kapag may naririnig po akong ganyan na compliments, siyempre thankful po ako, pero hindi ko ipinapasok sa utak ko. Kasi hindi naman po talaga natin alam kung ano yung puwedeng mangyari,” she said. “Kung nakikita po nila ako na ganoon, maraming-maraming salamat, kasi malaking bagay po yon.”
In her Botejyu ad, Ashtine is seen pausing between call times to enjoy her favorite Donburi Rice Bowl—a moment that reflects how she finds comfort in Japanese food amid her hectic schedule.
“Japanese food is my comfort lane, especially rice bowls. 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,” she shared.
According to Vicente Raphael del Rosario IV, Viva Foods President and COO, Ashtine perfectly represents the campaign’s spirit. “Ashtine brings a joyful, genuine energy that mirrors how Filipinos enjoy Japanese rice bowls—casual, comforting, and always delectable.”
With Botejyu’s best-selling Donburi staples—Tender Pork Katsu, Diced Teriyaki Beef Garlic Steak, Hokkaido-Style Grilled BBQ Pork, and Prawn Tempura—now tied to Ashtine’s vibrant image, the brand aims to highlight not just food but also the joy of taking a well-deserved break.
From being an extra in local dramas to headlining campaigns for top brands, Ashtine Olviga is proof that persistence pays off. And with respected industry voices already likening her humility and passion to one of OPM’s biggest icons, her star is only set to shine brighter.
