We’ve probably heard of different Filipino surnames, especially common ones that are Spanish, Chinese, and regional-inspired. But there are several other Filipino surnames that will somehow make you giggle or somehow ponder, “Ah, may apelyido pala na ganyan?” or “Ngayon lang ako nakarinig ng ganyang apelyido.” So in this blog, we have listed down a couple of these unusual and quirky Filipino last names since there are tons (we’re telling you!). Sit tight as we reveal them!
What’s Inside
Unusual Filipino Surnames
1. Ambong
It comes from Filipino and Cebuano, this surname denotes a hut specifically used for storing food grains.
2. Camama
This surname originates from the Maranao word “kamama,” which means “manly” or “masculine.”
3. Mahusay
“Mahusay” or ‘excellent’ in Tagalog is commonly used in the Philippines to compliment someone’s work or as an expression of appreciation towards something that gives great satisfaction. But it’s rare so we don’t usually see or hear this as a surname in the country.
4. Fabroa
Next on the list is another uncommon last name in the Philippines—Fabroa, which means “lucky” in Tagalog. It’s so rare that not many people carry this last name, both inside and outside the country.
5. Angangco
Pronounced as “Ahn-GAHNG-koh,” Angangco is a unique last name in the Philippines that combines native and possibly Chinese influences. It can also sometimes be written as Ang-Angco.
6. Bacolod
Named after a city in the Philippines, this surname ties individuals to a rich cultural and historical heritage.
7. Limcangco
Limcangco is not only rare in the Philippines, but it’s also rare in other countries—and it’s obviously a Chinese last name used in the country, which may be related to other similar Chinese surnames such as Lin and Lam.
8. Pulumbarit
Now, this one’s clearly a rare and unusual last name in the Philippines as you won’t normally encounter someone with Pulumbarit as their surname. Pronounced as “PEW-lumm-Behr-iht,” this last name is seldom used today.
9. Radiomoda
Quirky and modern-sounding, Radiomoda is an unusual last name in the Philippines that originates from the Muslim Maranao people, and was historically used as a royal title for sultans. It also means “young king” in the country.
10. Yutadco
Nothing much is known about the origin of Yutadco, but it’s obviously a Chinese-Filipino last name. You also won’t see it appear much today.
11. Eje
Short and easy to remember, Eje is an unusual last name that many of us might not have heard of until reading this blog and there is hardly any information about its origin.
Quirky Filipino Surnames
12. Balut
Yes, it’s the infamous street food, but in surname form, it adds a taste of local flavor to any family tree. Bet you didn’t expect to meet a “Balut” at the reunion!
13. Bobis
Though the specific origin of Bobis is less documented, it sounds like the spicy Filipino dish “bopis” that has a Spanish origin.
14. Lumacad
Same as the Tagalog word “lumakad” which means ‘to walk’ or ‘walk’, except that Lumacad is spelled with a ‘c’ instead of ‘k’.
15. Dimaano
The “Dima” series officially starts now—if you know, you know! “di” which means ‘no’ and “maano” which means ‘have something happen,’ essentially saying you can’t be touched or you are untouched.
16. Bolcan
Not much information about this surname as it’s not only quirky, but it’s also rare. Though Bolcan is somehow similar to “bulkan” which is Tagalog for ‘volcano’. Who knew your family name could be as fiery as a lava flow?
17. Tatlonghari
Meaning “three kings” in Filipino, this surname has cultural and possibly religious connotations.
18. Catacutan
“Katakutan” means ‘fear’ or ‘to be feared’ except that this one is spelled with a ‘c’ instead of a ‘k’. You probably won’t want to mess with a “Catacutan.” Just kidding!
19. Dimagiba
Combine “di” which means ‘no’ and “magiba” which means ‘change or destroy’ — you get a family that cannot be destroyed. Now that’s a strong family tie!
20. Dimaunahan
With “di” meaning ‘no’ and “maunahan” meaning ‘get ahead,’ resulting in a quirky sense because it looks like they’re saying you can’t get ahead of anyone with the last name Dimaunahan.
21. Lumaban
Families with “Lumaban” as their last name are probably fighters since in English it literally means ‘fight back’ or ‘to fight back’. They probably don’t easily back down — especially not from karaoke challenges!
22. Dilig
Meaning ‘to water’ or ‘watering’, a “Dilig” certainly won’t let your plants die!
23. Dimabasa
And so the “Dima” series continues—-with Dimabasa, which originates from the combination of two Tagalog words: “di” meaning ‘no’ and “basa” meaning ‘’wet’. So it’s like saying it’s not wet, it’s dry.
24. Dimacuha
A “Dimacuha” is probably hard to get or convince since “di” means ‘no’ and “makuha” (originally spelled with a k) means ‘get’. So better up your game if you’re trying to pursue them!
25. Masipag
Meaning “industrious” in Filipino, Masipag is a surname denoting a family renowned for their hard work. This surname isn’t just hardworking, it’s practically in overdrive. Ideal for families that never say no to a second round of lechon.
26. Pabalat
Pabalat is both an unusual and quirky last name that you can find in the Philippines. With “pa” meaning ‘please’ or a way to politely ask someone for a favor and “balat” or ‘skin,’ it’s like asking someone to peel off something for you.
27. Tagalicud
Tagalicud or “taga likod” translates to ‘from behind’ or ‘from the back’.
28. Mapanganib
“Mapanganib” means ‘dangerous’, but in name only — unless you count how competitive your family gets during holiday Monopoly marathons. Wink wink!
29. Buquing
Buquing sounds like “buking” in Tagalog, which means “busted.” With a name like this, your family must have some quirky stories to tell at gatherings.
30. Dimaapi
Last but not least among the many “Dima” series, Dimaapi means ‘cannot be oppressed’, so they’re not backing down when troubles come their way!
And there you have it – a whirlwind tour through the wonderfully unusual and quirky world of Filipino last names! Cheers to the rich tapestry of names that make every Filipino family tree as colorful as a fiesta!
