Alimanguan is a barangay (or district) in the municipality of San Vicente, located in the province of Palawan, the Philippines. Its name is believed to be derived from the local word “alimango,” referring to a species of crab indigenous to the area, typically found in “katunggan” or “bakawan”, a kind of mangrove forest. This is a testament to the area’s abundant crab population, which was so vast that they could often be spotted crawling on the streets, according to local lore.
The first inhabitants of Alimanguan were four families of the Tagbanua community — the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco families. This ethnic group is among the earliest people of the Philippines and is known for its rich and well-preserved traditions and culture.
Interestingly, Alimanguan was not always known by its current name. It was initially called “Aduas” and was originally a part of the municipality of Taytay. This changed in 1931 when the name was officially changed to Alimanguan. The barangay further cemented its distinct identity after World War II in 1945, when it was recognized officially as an independent barangay. The first local leader, or “Teniente del barrio”, was Mison Gapilango, followed by Marciano Gabin in 1946, and subsequently by Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
The barangay underwent another significant shift in 1972 when the municipality of San Vicente was established as a separate entity from Taytay in the province of Palawan. As part of this reorganization, Alimanguan was transferred from Taytay to San Vicente, marking its current geopolitical status.
Alimanguan’s history illustrates a journey of transformation and growth, from a small settlement brimming with crustaceans to an official barangay within the municipality of San Vicente, all while holding onto its cultural roots and traditions.
