Barangay New Agutaya, situated in the municipality of San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines, boasts a rich history that intertwines the lives of its founding families, as well as the larger population of Agutaynens who migrated there from Old Agutaya. The community’s beginnings are woven into its original name, Nasalugan, which originates from the Cuyunon word ‘saleg’, signifying ‘floor.’ Before becoming an independent barangay, it was a sitio of Barangay Alimanguan, the southernmost barangay of the Municipality of Taytay.
The early history of New Agutaya is closely tied to two key individuals: Mr. Bartolome Adion and Mr. Jose Favillaran, who were not only in-laws but also the first settlers of this sitio. As the area grew with the influx of residents from Old Agutaya, its character and demographics started to change. This shift resulted in a move for independence, spearheaded by the residents who drafted a petition to the Municipal Mayor of Taytay, Domingo Mercado, to transform their sitio into a barrio. Their initiative proved successful, with Bartolome Adion becoming the first Barangay Captain.
The community’s identity was further solidified when, during a barangay meeting, Melquiades Pablico suggested renaming the locale “New Agutaya.” The proposal resonated with the majority of inhabitants, who themselves were Agutaynens, originally hailing from the municipality of Agutaya. The change was unanimously approved, and from then on, the area was known as New Agutaya.
A pivotal moment in the barangay’s history was on June 21, 1969, when the municipality of San Vicente was established. As part of this process, Barangays New Agutaya, Binga, and Alimanguan were transferred from the jurisdiction of Taytay to San Vicente. Since then, New Agutaya has continued to grow and flourish, maintaining its unique heritage while forging a path as part of the vibrant municipality of San Vicente.