Legend has it that one evening in the year 1945, the then would-be National Artist for Music and Lyrics Felipe de Leon looked out the window and saw his beloved Manila leveled to the ground. World War II had come to its end but the final battle between the rescuing Americans and the occupying Japanese forces has left the once beautiful city in ruins. This sight along with his desire for the end to all wars is believed to be what inspired De Leon to compose his immortal song Payapang Daigdig.
For some strange reason, Payapang Daigdig evolved over the years into a popular Christmas carol. Maybe it was because of the lyrics written by Eduardo de Leon and Brigido Batungbakal. This expresses in simple words longing for peace for all mankind living under the blue sky of this world. This sentiment does bear a close resemblance to the Austrian Christmas carol Silent Night. But no matter the reason Payapang Daigdig is now considered a part of the Filipino Yuletide celebration.
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