The Most Common Filipino LAST NAMES and their Meaning

At birth we are given a right to a name and last name. It can be derived from a number of sources: our parents, notable family members, future aspirations bestowed on us without us knowing, desired characteristics…etc. Filipino names have evolved and changed through out time as has become a melting pot of inspiration from indigenous origins, to western influences. Let’s take a dive to origins of Filipino last names.

Original or indigenous Filipino names are those that are derived from the indigenous languages spoken by the various ethnic groups in the Philippines. These names reflect the cultural heritage of the country and are often tied to nature, mythology, and historical events.

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, the indigenous peoples of the Philippines had their own naming traditions. These names were often based on the physical attributes of the child, such as hair color or body build, as well as the day or time of birth. In addition, some names were based on qualities that parents wished for their child, such as bravery or wisdom. Most notable of these are “Malakas” (strong) and “Maganda” (beautiful): the first humans according to Tagalog Folklore.

Examples common original (Pre-Colonial) Filipino names include:

1. Malaya - This name means "free" in Tagalog, and reflects the spirit of independence and freedom that is highly valued in Filipino culture.

2. Lakandula - This name is of Tagalog origin and means "lord of the palace." It is a traditional name of the nobility, and is often given to children who are seen as having leadership potential.

3. Balik - This name means "return" in Tagalog, and is often given to children who are seen as the "return" of a lost loved one or the embodiment of a cherished memory.

4. Lihim - This name means "secret" in Tagalog, and is often given to children who are seen as having a mysterious or secretive nature.

5. Bayani - This name means "hero" in Tagalog, and is often given to children who are seen as having the potential to do great things and make a positive impact on society.

6. Amihan - This name means "northeast wind" in Tagalog, and reflects the importance of nature and the environment in Filipino culture.

7. Tala - This name means "star" in Tagalog, and is often given to children who are seen as having a bright and shining future.

8. Bangkaw - This name means "spear" in Visayan, and reflects the importance of warfare and hunting in the culture of the Visayan people.

9. Liwayway - This name means "dawn" in Tagalog, and reflects the hope and optimism that comes with a new day.

10. Anakpawis - This name means "child of the fields" in Tagalog, and reflects the importance of agriculture and farming in Filipino culture.

However, during the Spanish colonial period, Filipinos were required to adopt Spanish surnames, as part of the colonizers' efforts to "civilize" the local population. This practice was known as the "sistema de apellidos," which required Filipinos to adopt the names of their godparents or sponsors during their baptism. In some cases, Filipinos were allowed to choose their surnames based on their place of origin or occupation.

As a result of this system, many Filipinos today have Spanish surnames, such as Garcia, Rodriguez, and Hernandez. However, some Filipinos also have surnames that reflect their indigenous roots, such as Balagtas, Dimasupil, and Magbanua.

While some of these surnames have Spanish origins, others have Chinese or indigenous roots.

According to Forbears, the 10 most common Filipino family last names are:

1. dela Cruz (meaning of the cross)

2. Garcia (meaning young/bear)

3. Reyes (meaning royals/royalty/king)

4. Ramos (meaning branch)

5. Mendoza (meaning cold mountain)

6. Santos (meaning saint)

7. Flores (meaning flower)

8. Gonzales (meaning war hall or son of Gonzalo; warrior)

9. Bautista (meaning Baptist)

10. Villanueva (meaning from Villanuevas; a new independent outlying settlement or villa)

During the American colonial period, which lasted from 1898 to 1946, the Philippine government introduced a new naming system that required Filipinos to use both their Spanish surname and their mother's maiden name. This system, known as the "Spanish-Filipino naming convention," was intended to align Filipino naming conventions with those of the United States.

In 1987, the Philippine government introduced a new naming law that allowed Filipinos to use either their mother's or father's surname as their primary surname. This law, known as Republic Act No. 9255, gave Filipinos the freedom to choose which parent's surname they wanted to use, regardless of gender.

Filipino family names continue to evolve and reflect the country's diverse cultural and historical influences. While many Filipinos still use Spanish surnames, there is also a growing trend of using indigenous names, Chinese names, and even English names.

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Written By Julian Russel Yu Noche

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