Paru-parong Bukid (English translation)

Butterfly from the field English Translation by Roberto Verzola

Paru-parong Bukid Traditional Filipino folk song

I just saw a butterfly, flitting and floating by; waiting by the main trail, fluttering in the air. Sari wrapped around her, sleeves as wide as my palm, Skirt’s a trifle oversized, ends dragging on the ground. - Her hair held with a pin Oh! Her hand twirling a comb Oh! Decorated half-slip, drawing others to peep. Then she faces the stage, ogling her own image, She would come and tease us, hips swaying like a duck.

Paru-parong bukid na lilipad-lipad Sa tabi ng daan papaga-pagaspas Isang bara ang tapis Isang dangkal ang manggas Ang sayang de kola Isang piyesa ang sayad. - May payneta pa siya Uy! May suklay pa mandin Uy! Naguas de ojetes ang palalabasin Haharap sa altar at mananalamin At saka lalakad nang pakendeng-kendeng.