Pagatin is a kind of Pangasinan wedding song.  It is derived from the word gatin which means to “to tread or step on.”  It is a song that recounts the bride’s entry into the groom’s house.

The song Pagatin is sung by the groom’s mother after the wedding reception which is held at the bride’s house.  The bridal entourage goes to the groom’s house where a simple reception awaits them. 

The Pagatin tells about the encouragement of the groom’s mother to the parents of the bride to do what is necessary because both of their children are in need.  The groom’s mother manifests her true love to her daughter-in-law by meeting her, dancing for her, and asking her to sit by her side.  

It also conveys the desire of the mother to make the union of their hearts a priority—and that they may have faithful love now and forever—that their hearts may be committed and beat as one—and that they may help one another so that they will prosper in life.

The song has a time signature of 2/4. Its tonality and key signature is C minor.  And it range is from “do” to “ do.” Its tempo is slow but it can be adjusted to moderato or allegretto.