David Archuleta still feels at home in the Phl

More than a decade after Nandito Ako introduced him to Filipino audiences, David Archuleta is proving that his character, Josh Bradley, remains close to his heart — and to his fans in the Philippines.

Marking what Filipino fans fondly celebrate as “Josh Bradley Day” every 15 July, the American singer-songwriter shared a nostalgic Instagram post looking back on his time filming the 2012 ABS-CBN mini-series in the country. Archuleta, who portrayed the lead character Josh Bradley, admitted he was recently reminded by fans of the annual celebration tied to the character’s birthday.

“I was reminded recently by some fans that they’d celebrate Josh Bradley Day (July 15th, his birthday) after I played the character for the mini series in the Philippines, Nandito Ako,” he wrote. He also recalled recording a version of Ogie Alcasid’s hit song “Nandito Ako,” which served as the series’ theme.

The singer said revisiting photos from his stay in the Philippines brought back memories of spending more than a month filming with the cast and crew, with whom he grew especially close. Although years have passed since the series aired, Archuleta said the affection Filipino fans continue to show whenever he returns to the country has remained constant.

“I’ve gone back to do shows there where fans have brought Josh Bradley signs and memorabilia — always brings back such nostalgia,” he shared, before thanking Filipinos for supporting his music and career through the years.

Archuleta also hinted that fans may have something to look forward to, teasing, “I’ve got a few surprises coming for the Philippines soon."