Indeed, music has a universal appeal. Hence, one does not have to be an Ilocano (whether in the Ilocos provinces or region in the Philippines, Hawaii, Baguio, or elsewhere) in order to appreciate Ilocano love songs.

(Video from youtube.com; posted by InZane77 04.17.07)

Some of the favorite or popular Ilocano love songs include "Diro ni ayat", "Ibagam man kaniak", "Diak ton agayat", and of course, the classic "Ayat Ti Maysa Nga Ubing" (which can be translated into "love of a youth"). This song reflects on the romantic emotions from a juvenile perspective, one that is untainted, simple, and pure.

But isn't that the beauty of any love song? It rings true and transcends the limitations of time and distance. And possibly any hurdle - whether real or imaginary - for we can always dream to begin with and hopefully follow through with the right action steps.