Alimanguan is a vibrant barangay, or village, located within the municipality of San Vicente in the province of Palawan, Philippines. Its intriguing name, derived from the local term “alimango,” represents a specific type of crab found abundantly in the local mangrove forests (“katunggan” or “bakawan”). In the past, the community was known for its vast population of these crustaceans, which could even be seen crawling in the streets.
The foundation of Alimanguan can be attributed to four Tagbanua families: the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco clans. The Tagbanua people are among the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines with a rich cultural heritage and history, adding to the unique character of Alimanguan.
Prior to receiving its current name, the barangay was known as “Aduas” and was part of the municipality of Taytay. It was only in 1931 that it was renamed Alimanguan, and further official recognition came after World War II in 1945 when it was declared an official barangay. The first leader, or Teniente del barrio, was Mison Gapilango, who was succeeded in turn by Marciano Gabin in 1946, and subsequently by Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
Significantly, in 1972, San Vicente became a separate municipality within the province of Palawan. During this municipal reorganization, Alimanguan was transferred from its parent municipality, Taytay, and incorporated into San Vicente, where it continues to contribute to the region’s unique cultural and ecological tapestry.