Xyriel Manabat portrays OFW nurse in Silent Sanctuary’s 'Una' MV

Xyriel Manabat has teamed up with OPM band Silent Sanctuary for the music video of “Una,” a story that highlights the sacrifices, struggles, and emotional toll of Filipinos working abroad.

The music video follows her character, a nurse in Hong Kong, which tries to depict the realities of life overseas. Manabat, 22, said the video aims to show the real hardships and emotional weight OFWs experience. 

She noted that while overseas work is often seen as an opportunity, many workers have to endure loneliness and personal challenges which their families are not aware of.

During filming, the production team guided the actress through several scenes, including her character’s graveyard shift duties and interactions with hospital staff and patients. The narrative captures both the demands of the job and the emotional strain of living away from home.

One particular scene left a strong impression on her, as she felt it was realistic and relatable in showing how OFWs find comfort in the people they interact with while coping with homesickness. 

In hindsight, Manabat pointed out the irony of being an OFW. "Ang sakit pala nung thought na nag-aalaga ka ng ibang tao, habang sarili mong pamilya hindi mo maalagaan,” she lamented.

The music video also portrays workplace pressures Filipinos faced in  foreign lands. In one scene, a doctor expresses frustration toward Manabat’s character after she accidentally spills coffee on a document. The incident, even though minor, becomes an emotional breaking point.

Manabat explained that the scene is not about being scolded, but about her character reaching emotional release. She noted that many Filipinos working abroad operate on autopilot to get through daily responsibilities and, in certain situations, may become emotionally wounded when they are repeatedly subjected by their superiors to harsh treatment.

With millions of OFWs deployed worldwide and families waiting for their return, the story resonates on a deeply personal level.

Manabat was also very grateful for the experience working with one of OPM’s most beloved bands. As a longtime fan of Silent Sanctuary, she said the experience felt meaningful and even emotional, as it reminded her of her younger self listening to their songs. 

She recently starred in the coming-of-age romantic drama “18th Rose” alongside Kyle Echarri in her first lead role.

“Una” was originally released as a lyric video under Universal Records in February 2026.

For more than two decades, Silent Sanctuary has remained a staple in the OPM scene. Since debuting in 2001, the band has captivated listeners with heartfelt songs and memorable melodies, producing hits like “Pasensya Ka Na,” “Kundiman,” “Ikaw Lamang,” and “14.”