Casiguran History, Philippines

Lying on the terrain of the golden sunrise Aurora, Casiguran has one of the most modest beginnings that not many have uncovered yet. This town unifies its people, the beach and nature to shape up a tranquil destination that holds some promise.

The Spanish messengers instituted Casiguran on June 13, 1609.  Historical accounts show that the Aetas or Dumagats first settled in Casiguran. It happened when some migrants from other provinces in the Philippines discovered the place and decided to settle in the village. These people articulate different native tongues like Visayan Bicolano, Gadang, Ibahag, Itawes and Pampango. Evolution of language was figured out until the town adopted “Kasiguranin” as its official dialect. The name Casiguran is deemed to have been acquired from the term “kasiguruhan” a native tongue that means “assurance” or “wellbeing”.

Speaking of safety, it elaborates that the town used to be attacked by threatening storms thus it hoped for protection at times. Assurance is referred to as a wish that if a stranger swings by the town and is unmarried he must ascertain that he becomes passionate with someone and effectually tie the knot. This third-rate community of Aurora is dwelled by 21459 Casiguranons as of 2000. These locals must be proud to dwell on a place that affords a scenic feast of luxuriant plantations.

The trees, the mountains and the sky have conspired to let out of the hidden potentials of Casiguran. The town is bestowed with thick forestry among which we can find the Virgin Forest.

Just as independence was enjoyed by the country on July 4, 1946, Casiguran and the rest of Aurora also took their merriment to grow further. At that time Casiguran was a solitary town to the North with a political authority that was bordered by Isabela to the north, Quirino to the west and Dinadlawan to the southwest. Casiguran had its small communities in Dilasag and Dinalungan that were later converted into municipalities. Dilasag was made a northern town in 1959 while Dinalungan became a southwest town in 1966. That achievement created more defined identities for all towns in Aurora.

The Agta Negritos of Eastern Luzon was also known to have settled in Casiguran in the 20th century. These are settlers who practiced a nomadic way of living hunting and bizarre rituals.

Casiguran is graciously low-key about its episodes in the olden times. This humble and quiet place continues to share a connection with the environment and trees to put forth a simple city that speaks of stillness.