OPM ‘rockestra’ band Silent Sanctuary is set to reach a new international milestone as the group performs a three-date tour in Japan from March 27 to 29, followed by a Singapore show on April 5 at Timbre+ One North. Originally planned as a single concert, the Japan run expanded to three performances after strong fan demand, with all shows now officially sold out.
“This is our first time in Japan. Supposed to be one show only, but because of the fans they opened a second show and then a third,” shared vocalist Sarkie Sarangay, noting that the band did not expect to discover such a large fanbase in the country.
Keyboardist Poch Villalon expressed excitement about joining the experience, saying he is happy to be part of the band’s first Japan run. Violinist Kim Mirandilla-Ng described the upcoming tour as a moment the band feels “grateful for a new adventure,” while cellist Anjo Inacay highlighted the growing reach of OPM across Asia, saying it is exciting to see Filipino music crossing into neighboring countries.
The band will perform at Mr. Back Saitama, Livehouse Shinjuku Samurai, and Heaven’s Door, bringing their signature blend of rock instrumentation and classical strings to new audiences.
For Sarangay, performing in Japan’s livehouse scene has long been a dream. “The idea of playing in a bar in Japan is exciting for us as a band. We’re very excited for the experience and to share OPM with the Japanese audience,” he said.
Members also shared that the performances come with both excitement and pressure.
Mirandilla-Ng noted that Japanese audiences are known for their technical standards, which motivates the band to elevate their musicality even further. “We want to level up our game when we get there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Inacay looks forward to celebrating his birthday during the tour, while drummer Allen Calixto shared his excitement about experiencing Japan for the first time with his wife.
Fans attending the Japan shows can expect a diverse setlist featuring classic hits, deeper cuts, and audience requests. Sarangay teased that the band may include J-pop inspired songs and b-side tracks, while Mirandilla-Ng said that the setlist might also depend on the energy of the night.
Following the Japan dates, Silent Sanctuary will continue its international appearances in Singapore, where the band plans to deliver what Sarangay described as a “full-blast performance” for supporters abroad.
“It’s our third time in Singapore, and Pinoys living there are very supportive. We’re adding new songs this time because we only played a few for them during our last visit,” he shared. Tickets for the Singapore show are available via Peatix.
Performing for international audiences brings a different kind of energy for the band. Inacay admitted there is an added nervousness when facing a new crowd, while Sarangay said they are both excited and curious about how overseas listeners will connect with their music.
“We want them to really enjoy the performance and relate to the songs,” he said.
Ahead of the tour, the band released a new single “Una,” under Universal Records on Feb. 27. Originally recorded as a demo in 2009, the track has been reworked and officially released as part of the band’s current chapter.
“This song really sounds like Silent Sanctuary,” said Sarangay, explaining that the band revisited the track after years of growth and experimentation.
Inacay added that longtime fans may recognize the song from early bar performances, sharing that the band revamped it to make it “single-worthy.”
The band also acknowledged that timing plays a big role in today’s music landscape, with Sarangay noting that there is no clear formula for virality, only the hope that songs reach listeners at the right moment.
As Silent Sanctuary continues to evolve creatively after more than two decades in the industry, the band remains driven by passion for music and the bond they share both on and off stage. Sarangay shared that he continues to push himself as a songwriter, believing that music offers endless opportunities for growth. Other members echoed this sentiment, saying they remain inspired by real stories, experimentation, and the joy of performing together.
Looking ahead, the band hinted at even bigger plans after the international run, including new songs, a Canada tour, and a major concert later this year. Inacay also teased that fans can expect reimagined versions of older songs in upcoming live performances.
“Endless gratitude,” Sarangay said in a message to fans. “Thank you to all the old and new fans. We hope you never get tired of us, because we will never get tired of making songs for you.”