From "Callang"
to San Manuel
San Manuel (formerly Callang) lies in the central western part of the province of Isabela. It is bounded on the north by the municipality of Roxas, on the south by Aurora, on the east by Burgos, and stretches westward to Paracelis in Mt. Province and Alfonsolista in Ifugao.
The name of the municipality is believed to have originated from "CALLANG", a native word referring to the hardwood molave tree — a material long used by the Kalingas, and a fitting symbol of the strength and rootedness that would come to define this land.
"From a humble barrio of Gamu, the people of Callang dared to build something lasting — a municipality that would carry their spirit forward."
— History of San Manuel, Isabela- Province: Isabela, Cagayan Valley (Region II)
- Original name: Callang — a Kalinga word for the molave hardwood tree
- Renamed: June 19, 1965 via Republic Act No. 4600
- Named after: President Manuel A. Roxas, 5th President of the Philippines
- Known as: The Agri-Industrial Business Hub of the North
Key Milestones
From the first settlers to the municipality we know today — every step of the journey.
The Early Settlers
The first waves of pioneers from Central Luzon arrived and established settlements in this area. During this time, Callang was a regular barrio of the municipality of Gamu.
Separation from Gamu
Roxas (formerly Barrio Vera) gained independence from Gamu and became a regular municipality. Callang was included as one of the barrios of this newly created municipality.
The Call for Independence
Due to rapid progress, leaders petitioned for Callang to become a regular town. Congressman Delfin B. Albano passed a bill in Congress. At that time, the place had 14,650 inhabitants and an annual income of ₱65,000.00.
Inauguration
The Municipal Government of Callang was inaugurated and began to function as a new municipality, with the seat of government designated at Barrio Callang.
Renaming to San Manuel
By virtue of Republic Act No. 4600, the name was changed from Callang to San Manuel, honoring the fifth President of the Philippine Republic, Manuel A. Roxas.
Territorial Expansion
Under R.A. 5869, the barrios of Sandiat, Villanueva (formerly Calaocan), and Nueva Era (formerly Sitio Bical) were transferred to San Manuel, expanding its territory.
Legacy of Leadership
San Manuel's growth has been shaped by dedicated leaders who gave their best to serve and uplift every citizen. From the very first appointed mayor to the present administration, the spirit of service has remained the constant thread.
Credit goes to these pioneer leaders who shaped the foundation of San Manuel and set the tone for what it means to govern with purpose and integrity.
Current Administration
Today, San Manuel is led by Hon. Faustino U. Dy IV. His battle cry, "Moving Forward, Unparalleled Development", aims to transform San Manuel from a 4th class to a higher-class municipality — focused on infrastructure, agriculture, and sustainable development.
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1
Ignacio Mendoza First Appointed Mayor
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2
Fermin A. Santiago First Elected Mayor
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3
Mariano B. Garcia Mayor
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4
Agaton Salvador Mayor
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5
Paulino A. Domingo Mayor
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6
Reynaldo P. Abesamis Mayor
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7
Jaime H. Domingo Mayor
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8
Faustino Michael Carlos T. Dy, III Mayor
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9
Manuel Faustino "King" U. Dy Mayor
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10
Hon. Faustino U. Dy IV Current Mayor — "Moving Forward!"