Meet Lara Liwanag And Robyn Brown, The Filipina Athletes On Netflix's 'Physical: Asia'

Asia just got a lot more intense—physically, that is. Netflix's Physical: Asia, the first-ever nation-versus-nation spin-off of the hit Korean series Physical: 100, is here to test limits, endurance, and pure willpower. With 48 athletes from eight countries—including Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Mongolia, Thailand, Turkey, Australia, and the Philippines—the show promises a cultural and athletic showdown like no other.

Each six-member team was led by a national icon who embodied their country's competitive spirit. For the Philippines, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao served as team captain before passing the role to rugby player Justin Coveney. And while all teams were mostly made up of men, the women of the series proved they were just as powerful—holding their own in a series known for its brutal, body-breaking challenges.

Get to know the fierce Filipinas who flew our flag on Physical: Asia.

Robyn Lauren Brown is a Filipino-American hurdler who made history when she clinched gold in the 400-meter hurdles at the 2023 Asian Athletics Championships, ending a 14-year drought for the Philippines in the event. She's also a SEA Games medalist and the current national record holder, breaking a mark once set by track legend Elma Muros-Posadas.

Born and raised in California to a Filipina mom and American dad, Robyn proves that success runs on both heart and heritage. On Physical: Asia, she brought that same discipline, focus, and quiet leadership that make her unstoppable on the track. Viewers got a glimpse of her strong communication and composure during the team coordination challenges—where speed and smarts made all the difference.

Off the field, you'll find Robyn on Instagram sharing training updates and reflections that highlight not just her wins, but also her mindset. She's proof that Filipina athletes can lead with both power and poise—and inspire others to do the same.

A proud Kapampangan and co-owner of Barn Fitness in Angeles, Pampanga, Lara Lorraine Deang Liwanag is one of the Philippines' top CrossFit athletes—and one of Asia's best.

She was crowned national champion at the Reebok CrossFit Games Open and consistently ranks among the top female competitors across the continent. She's also a registered nurse! From nursing shifts to deadlifts, Lara proves that women can be both caretakers and competitors.

Off-screen, she continues to champion fitness and empowerment, using her platform to promote women's health, strength, and self-belief.

Robyn and Lara showed the best of their abilities when they won a crucial point during the elimination round against Thailand in Episode 5—a moment of grit, skill, and determination that that had everyone rooting for them.

Their performance reminds us to continue supporting Filipina athletes in their careers, whether in competitive sports or beyond. These women are proof that talent, resilience, and heart know no limits.