Alimanguan
Alimanguan is a vibrant barangay or district located in San Vicente, Palawan in the Philippines. The name ‘Alimanguan’ stems from the word “alimango”, a native term that denotes a specific species of crabs found in local habitats called “katunggan” or “bakawan”. The region has a rich abundance of these crustaceans, with some locals fondly reminiscing about a time when Alimango crabs were so plentiful that they could be seen crawling in the streets. This teeming crab population inspired the original settlers to adopt the name ‘Alimanguan’ for their new home.
The original settlers were a group of Tagbanua families; specifically, the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco families. They established the community and were the bedrock of Alimanguan’s cultural foundation. Before being named Alimanguan, the place was known as “Aduas” and was under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Taytay.
In a significant event in 1931, Aduas was renamed Alimanguan, and it eventually achieved official barangay status in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II. Over the years, a succession of leaders steered the community, starting with Mison Gapilango, the first Teniente del barrio, followed by Marciano Gabin in 1946, then Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
In 1972, a major administrative change took place. San Vicente became a distinct municipality in the province of Palawan, and Alimanguan, formerly part of Taytay, was incorporated into San Vicente as one of its barangays. This event marked the official recognition of Alimanguan as an integral part of San Vicente and a distinct community contributing to the socio-cultural and economic fabric of Palawan.
Thus, Barangay Alimanguan has a rich history that reflects the broader changes in the Palawan province. Its name symbolizes the ecological richness of the region, while its journey from being part of Taytay to becoming a recognized barangay of San Vicente signifies the community’s growth and evolving identity.