Alimanguan is a barangay (a local term for a village or district) located in the municipality of San Vicente, in the province of Palawan, Philippines. The name Alimanguan originates from the native term “alimango,” meaning a species of crab, which is found in abundance in the local “katunggan” or “bakawan” (mangrove forests). These crustaceans are so numerous that the locals say you could see them crawling in the streets.
The barangay was first established by four families of the Tagbanua ethnic group: the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco families. The name Alimanguan was adopted in honor of the local crab population that was an integral part of the area’s natural environment.
Originally known as “Aduas,” the village was part of the municipality of Taytay until 1931. It was during this year that it was renamed to Alimanguan and then officially became a recognized barangay following the end of World War II in 1945. The first leader, or Teniente del barrio, was Mison Gapilango. Subsequent leaders included Marciano Gabin in 1946, followed by Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
In 1972, San Vicente became a separate municipality within the province of Palawan. As a part of this reorganization, Barangay Alimanguan was transferred from Taytay to San Vicente. This move signaled the barangay’s inclusion in the new municipality, thereby redefining its administrative and geographical affiliations.
To this day, Barangay Alimanguan continues to be a part of the distinct community and natural environment of San Vicente, with its history and identity deeply intertwined with the native species and natural habitats that characterize this unique part of the Palawan province.