Parañaque’s barrios which were later known as barangays, also have a colourful history. Its most popular barangay, Baclaran, located at the north end of Parañaque, was made famous due to its proximity to the shore. It was named Baclaran due to the enclosures used by the fisherfolk called the “baklad” or what we call fishpens today. Tambo, one of Parañaque’s very first barrios was named after the local tall grass or bamboo species found in the area. These tambo grass became commonly used as a component of broom making in the country. Sto. Nino, a small strip of island in Parañaque was named after the Holy Child Jesus. Don Galo was named after a person who engaged battle against pirates that tried to infiltrate the city of Manila by landing in Parañaque. As a result of Don Galo’s heroism, the Spanish government rewarded him by renaming the barrio (formerly known as Santa Monica) after him. San Dionisio was a barrio named after Saint Dionyssius, a bishop and missionary who was captured and beheaded. The place which was named after him consisted of hectares of agricultural lands. Most of these barangays have been converted to subdivisions and business districts.

In April of 1978, ten (10) more barangays were createad under several Presidential decrees. The barangays created were those of BF Homes, Don Bosco, Marcelo Green, Merville, Moonwalk, San Antonio, San Isidro, San Martin de Porres, Sun Valley, and Vitalez.

Map of Paranaque City - Per Barangay (City Planning & Development Coordinator’s Office)