MANILA, Philippines (AP) — “American Idol” runner-up David Archuleta says he’s “excited” about working on a Philippine TV series.

The singer’s Filipino co-stars Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Eula Caballero welcomed him with flower garlands at Manila’s airport Friday, and fans and journalists jostled to take pictures as he emerged from the airport gate.

Archuleta, 20, said in a video blog before leaving the U.S. that he has taken acting lessons to prepare. “I’m excited about it,” he said. “This is a new experience for me.”

TV5 Vice President Perci Intalan says “it’s a dream come true” for the network to have Archuleta in a Filipino show.

He’ll be shooting the drama series over the next few weeks. More details on the show and Archuleta’s role were not available.

Archuleta competed on the 2007-2008 season of “American Idol” and has released three albums.

He announced last month he would take a break from music to serve two years as a Mormon missionary. The location of his mission has not been disclosed.