Baliuag Bulacan Philippines

Brief History of Baliuag

Through the years of Spanish domination, Baliuag was predominantly agricultural. People had to depend on rice farming for main source of livelihood. Orchards and “tumanas” yielded fruits and vegetables, which were sold in the public market. Commerce and industry also played important contributions to the economy of the people. Buntal hat weaving in Baliuag together with silk weaving popularly known in the world as Thai silk; the manufacturer of cigar cases, pina fibers, petates (mats) and Sillas de Bejucos (cane chairs) all of fine quality became known in many parts of the world. The local market also grew. During the early part of the 19th century Baliuag was already considered one of the most progressive and richest town of Bulacan. The growth of the public market has significantly changed the mode of economy of the town. Baliuag became the center of commercial activities due to its strategic geographical location.

Historical records say that Baliuag was part of Quingua (now Plaridel). From the time Baliuag was separated from Plaridel up to 1998, the town had leaders numbering to 49 who served as Captain, 13 as Alcalde, and 92 as Gobernadorcillos.

The American came. Baliuag became distinguished as the first municipality organized under this regime and the first of municipal officials was held on May 6, 1899. The first municipal president was Hon. Francisco Guerero. Baliuag since then had 26 mayors until Hon. Rolando F. Salvador rose to political leadership in 1998 and currently the 27th mayor of the municipality.

Baliuag rose to prominence as the growth center in the northern part of Bulacan. In 1932 the market revenue soared to Php 39,000.00, which greatly contribute to the general services to the people. The last five years of income in million from 1995 to 1999 is as follows: Php 52.222, Php 61.201, Php 68.588 and Php 80.705.