Philippine Towns and Barangays Get New Names to Reflect Local Usage, History

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has officially renamed several towns and barangays across the country to align official designations with historical usage and local community preferences. This move aims to correct discrepancies between official names and local realities, thereby preventing confusion. In Davao del Norte, the Municipality of San Isidro has been officially renamed Sawata by virtue of Republic Act 11814, which was ratified in April this year. Consequently, Barangay Sawata within the municipality has been renamed Barangay Poblacion to avoid duplication and confusion with the municipality's name. San Isidro was originally created in 2004, but local residents have consistently referred to the area as Sawata. Similarly, in Misamis Occidental, the town of Don Victoriano Chiongbian has had its name corrected to Don Victoriano, based on Republic Act 6845. This correction was made following certifications from the local mayor and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). In Bukidnon, the names of 13 barangays across six towns, as well as in the cities of Malaybalay and Valencia, have been corrected. For instance, in Kalilangan, Barangay Baborawon is now officially Barorawon, and Maca-opao is now Macaopao. In Kitaotao, Balukbukan is now Balocbocan. In Malaybalay City, Indalaza is now Indalasa, and Kabalabag is now Kibalabag. In Quezon, Merangerang is now Merangeran, while Santa Cruz is now Sta. Cruz. In Sumilao, Culasi is now spelled with a K (Kulasi). In Talakag, Santo Nino is now officially Sto. Nino. In Valencia City, Nabago is now Nabag-o, Kahapunan is now Kahaponan, and Lurogan is now Lurugan. In Malitbog, Santa Ines is now Sta. Ines. These name changes were approved based on recommendations from the NHCP, municipal mayor certifications, and local council resolutions, ensuring official designations reflect historic usage and local community preferences.