MANILA — The boys' love (BL) series "Gaya sa Pelikula" has finally found its lead stars.

On Wednesday, producer Globe Studios introduced Ian Pangilinan as Vlad and Paolo Pangilinan as Karl.

Paolo is a showbiz newcomer, while Ian is a theater actor who most recently appeared in the "Tabing Ilog" musical.

"Gaya sa Pelikula," written by Juan Miguel Severo ("Hintayan ng Langit"), is under the direction of JP Habac ("I'm Drunk, I Love You").

The college-set "Gaya sa Pelikula" tells the blooming romance between Karl, a freshman, and Vlad, an upperclassman. Its first few chapters are available on Wattpad.

"It wasn't a single night that started us."

Introducing @ianpangilinan_ as Vlad and @PaoPangs as Karl! 😍#GayaSaPelikula coming out SOON! Created and written by @TheRainBro to be directed by @jphabac.

Proudly produced by #GlobeStudios 🏳️‍🌈 pic.twitter.com/TuprAqcjkJ

— #GayaSaPelikula (@gayasapelikula) July 8, 2020

"Gaya sa Pelikula" is the latest BL series to be locally produced following the massive success of "2gether" from Thailand, even among Filipino viewers.

Severo, in developing the project, earlier said they were specifically looking to cast queer actors in the roles of Karl and Vlad, anchored on the belief that LGBT actors can best lend truth to portraying LGBT characters.

Severo, however, later said that the undertaking has proven challenging due to "systemic homophobia" that discourages gay actors to pursue gay roles, for fear of being boxed or their personal lives scrutinized.