Alimanguan, a barangay in San Vicente, Palawan, holds a unique etymology and a rich history. The name Alimanguan is derived from “alimango,” a native term denoting a species of crab commonly found in the “katunggan” or “bakawan” habitats of the region. The name originates from an observation by early residents, who noticed that the area was abundant with these crabs to such an extent that they could be seen crawling in the streets.
The initial settlers of Alimanguan were four Tagbanua families: the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco families. These families named the place in honor of its rich crab population, an element of local fauna that impressed them deeply.
Before its current name was adopted, Alimanguan was known as “Aduas.” The area initially belonged to the municipality of Taytay. In 1931, however, the barangay was renamed to Alimanguan, a name that would stick. It was only after World War II, in 1945, that Alimanguan was officially recognized as a barangay. The first Teniente del barrio or Barangay Captain was Mison Gapilango. He was succeeded by Marciano Gabin in 1946, followed by a sequence of leaders, including Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
In 1972, a significant shift in regional boundaries occurred when San Vicente became a distinct municipality within the province of Palawan. As part of this process, Taytay ceded Barangay Alimanguan, which then became part of San Vicente. This shift in administrative jurisdictions marked a new chapter in Alimanguan’s history, shaping its future as part of the municipality of San Vicente.
Thus, Alimanguan stands today as a vibrant barangay in San Vicente, Palawan, with its own unique story, an etymology rooted in local fauna, and a history marked by changing boundaries and leadership.