Last Names in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you curious about the fascinating history and diverse cultural influences behind Filipino last names? This article provides a comprehensive list of common Philippine last names, exploring their origins and meanings. From Spanish colonial heritage to indigenous roots, Filipino surnames reveal a rich tapestry of influences that shape the nation's identity. Discover the stories behind these names and gain a deeper understanding of the Filipino people.
1. **Abad:** Meaning "eternal" or "perpetual," this surname is of Spanish origin and signifies lastingness and endurance.
2. **Agcaoili:** A Kapampangan surname signifying "the one who lives in Agcaoili," a town in Pampanga.
3. **Agustin:** Of Spanish origin, meaning "great" or "august," this name signifies nobility and grandeur.
4. **Aguilar:** Meaning "eagle" in Spanish, this surname represents strength, freedom, and soaring heights.
5. **Alcantara:** A Spanish surname derived from the town of Alcántara in Spain, known for its historic bridge and fortress.
6. **Alejandro:** Of Greek origin, meaning "defender of mankind," this surname signifies protection and courage.
7. **Almario:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the word "almirante," meaning "admiral," suggesting leadership and naval prowess.
8. **Alvarez:** A Spanish surname with a complex meaning, potentially derived from "albus" (white) or "alvar" (wise).
9. **Amado:** Of Spanish origin, meaning "beloved" or "loved," this surname signifies affection and endearment.
10. **Amante:** Meaning "lover" in Spanish, this surname represents passion, devotion, and romance.
11. **Amparo:** A Spanish surname signifying "protection" or "shelter," suggesting a sense of security and safeguarding.
12. **Andrada:** A Spanish surname of unknown origin, possibly related to a place or family name.
13. **Ang:** A Chinese surname meaning "king" or "ruler," signifying authority and power.
14. **Antonio:** Of Latin origin, meaning "priceless" or "invaluable," this name signifies worth and esteem.
15. **Aquino:** A Spanish surname meaning "eagle" or "falcon," reflecting strength and a sharp intellect.
16. **Arias:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from "aria," a melody or song, suggesting a musical or artistic connection.
17. **Arroyo:** Meaning "stream" or "brook" in Spanish, this surname signifies flow, movement, and connection.
18. **Asis:** A surname of uncertain origin, possibly related to the Spanish word "asistir," meaning "to assist" or "to attend."
19. **Atayde:** A Portuguese surname of uncertain origin, possibly related to a place or family name.
20. **Austria:** Meaning "Austria" in Spanish, this surname represents a connection to the European country and its culture.
21. **Avelino:** Of Latin origin, meaning "desired" or "wished for," this surname signifies yearning and longing.
22. **Avila:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the town of Ávila in Spain, known for its historical significance.
23. **Ayala:** A Spanish surname of uncertain origin, possibly related to a place or family name.
24. **Banaag:** A Tagalog surname meaning "dawn" or "sunrise," signifying hope, new beginnings, and illumination.
25. **Bautista:** Of Spanish origin, meaning "baptized," this surname signifies religious faith and spiritual renewal.
26. **Baylon:** A Tagalog surname meaning "one who lives in Baylon," a town in the Philippines.
27. **Beltran:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from "beltrán," a variant of "bertrand," meaning "bright" or "famous."
28. **Benitez:** A Spanish surname of uncertain origin, possibly related to a place or family name.
29. **Bernardo:** Of German origin, meaning "brave" or "bold," this name signifies courage and strength.
30. **Blanco:** Meaning "white" in Spanish, this surname symbolizes purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
31. **Borja:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the town of Borja in Spain, known for its historical significance.
32. **Bueno:** Meaning "good" or "well" in Spanish, this surname signifies virtue, excellence, and quality.
33. **Cabrera:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the word "cabra," meaning "goat," suggesting a connection to animal husbandry or a specific location.
34. **Caguioa:** A Kapampangan surname signifying "one who lives in Caguioa," a town in Pampanga.
35. **Calderon:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the word "caldera," meaning "cauldron," suggesting a connection to cooking or a specific location.
36. **Calvo:** Meaning "bald" in Spanish, this surname is descriptive and potentially humorous.
37. **Camara:** A Spanish surname possibly derived from the word "cámara," meaning "chamber" or "room," suggesting a connection to a specific place or function.
38. **Campos:** Meaning "fields" or "plains" in Spanish, this surname signifies nature, openness, and vastness.
39. **Canlas:** A Kapampangan surname signifying "one who lives in Canlas," a town in Pampanga.
40. **Caparas:** A Kapampangan surname signifying "one who lives in Caparas," a town in Pampanga.