MANILA, Philippines—Two international celebrities, both with Asian roots, are current hosts of TV shows with fascinating fun factors.

Quick on the heels of his stint on "The Amazing Race Asia," Rovilson Fernandez signed up as host of the QTV trivia show "Ang Pinaka" (Sundays, 6 p.m.) taking over from Pia Guanio.

His goal was to make the transition seamless: "I asked if I could dress like Pia, so viewers wouldn't notice the difference. I hoped they'd think "Pia had simply gained weight and gotten a huskier voice."

He dropped the charade, he jests, "when I realized I was wearing women's clothing even outside the studio." This Fil-Am's quirky sense of humor is consistently showcased in the weekly gig.

Tony Sano, Japanese-American actor-musician, is the calm and collected center of the chaotic ABC reality program, "I Survived a Japanese Game Show" (locally airs Sundays, 7 p.m., on Studio 23).

The concept is "unique," Sano told Inquirer Entertainment in a phone interview. Sano acts as guide/interpreter for 10 Americans thrust into an alien environment-the set of a crazy Japanese game show in Tokyo-for the chance to win $250,000. Think "Lost in Translation" crossed with "Survivor" and and "Big Brother."

LA-based Sano has an indie mockumentary in the can, "Touch Wood." He also dabbles in music, which he posts on his web site (www.tonysano.com).

Rovilson Fernandez

What's your style of hosting?

It's a combination of the hosts I admire: Bob Costas (authoritative), Ryan Seacrest (effortless), Wayne Brady (clinically urban), Dennis Miller (cerebral) and Joel McHale (irreverent). But in the end, I constantly lose control and wind up hosting like Rovilson (babbling fool).

Who are the local hosts you look up to?

I've always admired Sarah Meier, Donita Rose, Boom Gonzalez, Alex Compton, Paolo Abrera.

The girls host effortlessly. They have a "girl-next-door appeal" that captivates a crowd.

The guys have great comic timing. They can multi-task on the fly, keep the audiences' attention and maintain focus.

How is your hosting style different from Pia Guanio's?

Honestly, I'm too busy admiring her looks that I'm not able to focus on her hosting.

How did you think the show would change when you came on board?

Well, the show's central theme has remained intact. But the presentation and packaging have definitely changed. Energetic, irreverent, comedic, unexpected, zany. It's just a livelier show. Now, travel, an occasional skit, guest appearances and other random things are going to be added. It's definitely going to be a ride each week.

Are you really fascinated with trivia?

The US purchased Alaska from Russia for approximately 2 cents an acre. Did you know that dolphins and humans are the only animals that have sex for pleasure? The Greek word "gymnasium" means "to exercise naked." The most common name in the world is Mohammed. Rubber bands last longer when refrigerated ... I could go on and on.

What are some of the memorable moments on the show?

The fact that I couldn't even pronounce the title of my own show for the first few weeks was quite embarrassing.

How did your "Amazing Race" experience enrich you as a person? As a TV host?

Well, I used to think only my friends and family would understand my jokes. But apparently the whole region laughed at me and with me.

If you could be part of any list, what would it be?

Ang Pinaka biggest idiots on TV. It would be an honor.

Tony Sano

What was it like doing the show?

Oh wow, it was a lot of fun from the start. The contestants had no idea that they were going to Japan. I had a great time as their guide. I got to visit my dear grandmother, Tomie Sano, in Southern Japan. I hadn't seen her in three years.

What was the feedback?

Generally, the feedback is good. Some people were really into it-at the very least, they thought it was uniquely amusing. It's not a serious show, but people get to see a foreign culture. Hopefully, viewers also learn something new about Japan and its people.

What did you learn?

For me, the show confirmed things I already knew. For example, that the Japanese and American crews work differently. That was interesting. The Japanese stick to schedules; the Americans like to try different things. Two dissimilar cultures create an entertaining product.

How would you describe your hosting style?

I like to keep it real, not too formal. I'd like to think that the contestants were very comfortable with me.

In a previous interview, you said your mom Mary and grandma Tomie are your inspirations.

My mother is a dancer. My grandmother was a performer as well, but she put that aside to take care of my mom. I wouldn't be where I am now if not for them. I could have taken a "safe" job, but they inspired me to pursue the arts.

You have a favorite T-shirt, the one with the lucky Chinese cat?

The cat! I don't know why I always end up wearing that shirt in my TV interviews.

You're in an indie film?

Yes, "Touch Wood," directed by Alpesh Patel. I've been to a screening and it's really funny. I play (Siamese Slim) a crazy, over-the-top Japanese guy.

What's it like being an Asian in Hollywood?

Every day, things are getting better. I'm very proud to be Asian-American. I hope to break the mold, make a difference.

Have you heard about the Philippines?

I have Filipino friends. I haven't been there, though.

Will there be a second season?

If you all watch, maybe. Write to ABC!

E-mail: bayanisandiego@hotmail.com