Parokya ni Edgar shaped the Pinoy music scene with infectious rock hits like “Halaga”! I just can’t get over how this song takes me back
Let’s talk about some of my favorite Filipino music. One Pinoy (colloquial term for Filipino) band that I enjoy listening to is Parokya ni Edgar.
The 1990s, my growing up years was a pivotal decade for Filipino music as homegrown acts like Parokya ni Edgar helped shape the burgeoning pop-rock scene. One song that catapulted the band to mainstream popularity was their infectious ditty “Halaga”, which is a powerful ballad that explores the theme of recognizing one’s self-worth, especially when stuck in a toxic relationship.
Self-worth and Empowerment
“Halaga,” which translates to “Worth” in English, was penned by Parokya ni Edgar’s frontman Chito Miranda. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal emotions and experiences that most listeners can relate to.
Lines like “Sa libu-libong pagkakataon na tayo’y nagkasama, iilang ulit palang kitang makitang masaya. Naiinis akong isipin na ginaganyan ka niya. Siguro ay hindi niya lang alam ang ‘yong tunay na halaga”, has resonated with Pinoy music lovers.
“In the thousands of times we’ve been together, I’ve only seen you truly happy a few times. It irritates me to think he treats you this way. Perhaps he just doesn’t know your real worth”.
These powerful lyrics deliver a poignant message of frustration and concern over someone’s predicament and a reminder that we deserve to be valued and cherished.
Miranda croons, “Ayoko nang isipin pa, ‘Di ko alam, ba’t ‘di mo makayanan na iwanan s’ya? Ang dami-dami naman d’yang iba, ‘Wag kang mangangambang baka wala ka nang ibang makita, Na lalaki na magmamahal sa ‘yo,At hinding-hindi n’ya sasayangin ang pag-ibig mo”.
“I don’t want to think about it anymore, I don’t know why you can’t leave him. There are so many other men out there. Don’t be afraid that you won’t find another man who will love you and cherish your love.”
The sympathetic and hopeful tone aims to uplift someone’s sense of self-worth and give the courage to start fresh in a relationship where someone is valued. Miranda encourages us to stand up for ourselves and not to accept poor treatment that damages our self-esteem.
Catchy Melody and Upbeat Sound
Beyond the evocative lyrics, “Halaga” immediately grabs listeners with its catchy, upbeat guitar-driven sound. It exemplifies the fun pop-rock vibe that Parokya ni Edgar popularized in the 90s. The melody and Chito Miranda’s emotive vocals make it easy for audiences to sing along:
“Umiiyak ka na naman. ‘Lang-hiya talaga, wala ka bang ibang alam? Namumugtong mga mata, Kailan pa ba kaya ikaw magsasawa?
“You’re crying again. don’t you know anything else? With your eyes swollen, when will you ever get tired?“
Timeless Appeal
In 1993 or so, “Halaga” was a hit, and Parokya ni Edgar gained mainstream fame virtually overnight, becoming a Pinoy pop-rock superstar. Since then, “Halaga” has remained one of the band’s signature hits that continuously attract new generations of fans.
“Halaga” is featured in numerous OPM compilations and is a requisite tune at karaoke bars. For us, Filipinos everywhere, it’s guaranteed to elicit sing-alongs and a nostalgic recall of simpler times.
Decades later, “Halaga” retains its timeless appeal thanks to its mix of heartfelt lyrics, pop-rock sound, and sing-along factor that speaks to the Pinoy listening experience. It cemented Parokya ni Edgar as a mainstays in OPM and remains a true Pinoy pop anthem.
Listen to the song here.
I’ve never heard Halaga before now, I loooove the message, love it….Thanks a lot for sharing this with us.
I haven’t heard of this band before. I will have to check them out. They sound like a wonderful group.
This is the first time I’ve heard of Halaga before. I’m so glad you shared this with us. Always great to learn something new.
I’ve never heard of this band or group before today. I personally like music that has a positive message behind it. I’ll have to check them out and see if I like their music or not.
I had never heard of this but I definitely need to check it out! 🙂
Love the powerful and inspiring messages in the song.. Some songs have that extra ‘something’ within that make them an anthem for ages… Will give the song a listen though I don’t know the language (but music is certainly universal)
Hi Vidya. This a local pop band. They sing good music anyone can relate to.
I’m not familiar with the music artist “Parokya ni Edgar,” but after reading this article, I am intrigued and eager to check out their music and explore their unique sound. Discovering new artists and expanding my musical horizon is always an exciting and rewarding experience.
I’m not familiar with this group. It is nice to learn of such a positive and inspirational group. Love their message.
Hi Marysa. This is a local pop band. They sing some good and inspirational music, anyone can relate to.