If you love heartfelt OPM ballads, you’ve likely heard “Palagi” by TJ Monterde. This soulful song stands out for its touching lyrics, gentle melody, and message of unwavering love.
TJ Monterde is a Filipino singer-songwriter known for his honest, acoustic-driven music. Growing up with a radio DJ father, TJ was immersed in music early on and began songwriting to express his feelings. His simple, sincere style resonates with listeners of all ages.
Release Date: July 6, 2023
Genre: Pop/OPM Ballad
Written by: Titus John Monterde (TJ Monterde)
Produced by: TJ Monterde & Chino David
Album: Palagi – Single
Notable Achievement: Billboard Philippines’ No. 1 Song of 2024
Movie Feature: Official soundtrack of Hello, Love, Again
At its core, “Palagi” is a love letter about constant, faithful devotion. The word “palagi” means “always” or “constantly” in English. The lyrics talk about choosing your partner time and again, even through misunderstandings, hardships, and the ups and downs of life.
Original Lyrics (Filipino) | English Meaning |
Hindi man araw-araw na nakangiti | Not all days give us smiles |
Ilang beses na rin tayong humihindi | And there have been a couple of times we disagree |
′Di na mabilang ang ating mga tampuhan | I now have lost count of our quarrels |
Away-bati natin, 'di na namamalayan | We fight and make up, without even realizing it |
Eto tayo | And yet, here we are |
Ngunit sa huli, palagi | Yet in the end, every time |
Babalik pa rin sa yakap mo | I'll still come back to your embrace |
Hanggang sa huli, palagi | Until the end, every time |
Pipiliin kong maging sa ′yo | I will still choose to be with you |
Ulit-ulitin man | No matter how many times (you ask) |
Nais kong malaman mong | I want you to know that |
Iyo ako palagi | I'm yours, always |
Palagi | Always |
Kung balikan man ang hirap, luha't lahat | Even if the hardships, tears, and all repeats |
Ikaw ang paborito kong desisyon at | You are (still) my favorite decision, and |
'Pag napaligiran ng ingay at ng gulo | When surrounded by noise and chaos |
′Di ko ′pagpapalit ngiti mo sa mundo | I wouldn't trade your smile for the world |
Eto tayo | And yet, here we are |
Sa huli, palagi | In the end, every time |
Babalik pa rin sa yakap mo | I'll still come back to your embrace |
Hanggang sa huli, palagi | Until the end, every time |
Pipiliin kong maging sa 'yo | I will still choose to be with you |
Ulit-ulitin man | No matter how many times (you ask) |
Nais kong malaman mong | I want you to know that |
Iyo ako | I'm yours |
Sa pagdating ng ating pilak at ginto | When we obtain our treasures—silver and gold |
Diyamante ma′y abutin, ikaw pa rin aking bituin | And in achieving our diamonds and achievements, you're still my star |
Natatangi kong dalangin 'gang sa huling siglo | My only prayer 'til the last hundred years |
Sa huli, palagi | In the end, every time |
Babalik pa rin sa yakap mo | I'll still come back to your embrace |
Mahal, sa huli, palagi | My love, in the end, always |
Pipiliin kong maging sa ′yo | I will still choose to be with you |
Ulit-ulitin man | No matter how many times (you ask) |
Nais kong malaman mong | I want you to know that |
Iyo ako palagi | I'm yours, always |
Chart Success
“Palagi” was honored as Billboard Philippines’ No. 1 song of 2024, spending 17 weeks in the top 10 of the year-end charts.
The song’s popularity soared even higher after being featured in Hello, Love, Again, and it has inspired numerous covers by other artists.
Fan Reactions
Emotional Connections: Fans describe “Palagi” as a “lifeline” and a song that perfectly captures the feeling of lasting love.
Online Buzz: Reaction videos on YouTube highlight the song’s soothing vibe, with many listeners praising TJ’s gentle vocals and heartfelt delivery.
International Appeal: While the song is rooted in Filipino culture, its universal message of devotion has touched audiences worldwide.
“Palagi” captures both the simplicity and depth of real love. As I listened, I was struck by how the lyrics gently remind us that love isn’t just about grand gestures, but about the everyday choice to stay and commit. The song’s message, that love is a daily decision and a lifelong promise, felt especially moving. This track lingers long after it ends, echoing the beauty of always choosing each other.
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