The Real Meaning Behind “Pagdating ng Panahon” Finally Explained
PAGDATING NG PANAHON – The well-known song, which launched Ice Seguerra’s music career more than 20 years ago, was not originally intended to be a love song.
According to songwriter Edith Gallardo, she was initially asked by the music company to create a piece centered on the experience of a middle child in a family. The concept was based on the idea that middle children often feel less noticed than their older and younger siblings and may sometimes feel they do not receive equal love and attention from their parents.
The original meaning of the song focused on a child’s quiet longing to be equally loved and valued within the family. The lyrics reflect feelings of waiting, hope, and a desire for recognition and affection.

Over time, however, many listeners interpreted the song differently, associating it with romantic love and the idea of waiting for someone’s affection to be returned. This broader interpretation contributed to the song’s lasting popularity, especially among listeners who related it to personal experiences of love and emotional longing.
Ice Seguerra later shared that he only recently learned about the song’s original inspiration. He noted that this understanding made the song feel even more meaningful and emphasized that music can carry different interpretations depending on the listener’s personal experiences. He also pointed out that songs become more effective when written in a universal way, allowing a wider audience to relate to them.

Seguerra also recently released a new version of “Pagdating ng Panahon” 25 years after its original success. He reflected on his career journey, including his recent experience directing a live television program for the first time. He dedicated these milestones to his late mother, expressing gratitude and a sense of fulfillment, believing they reflected her hopes for him.