Dupax del sur

Dupax derived its name from the Isinay word “Dopaj” which means to lie down in complete relaxation
and rest, which the natives wanted to do after hard days of hunting in the surrounding forest before
departing for their homes in the distant settlements, The town was first discovered by Luis Perez
Dasmariñas in 1591. Eighteen years later the mission was established in Dupax by the Dominican Friars.
But due to territorial disputes between the Franciscans and Dominican, the mission was later abandoned.
From 1632-1702, Dupax has proven to be too difficult to colonize. Then in 1717, Fr. Alejandro Cacho
came on mission to Dupax and slowlyestablished Christian communities. During that time, three tribes
lived in the vinicity of Dupax namely: the Malaats from Ituy, the Caraos from Benguet; and the
Bugcalots. The Malaats are said to be the ancestors of the Isinays. It was only In April, 1726 when Dupax
was founded as an yrbab settlement by the Augustinian missionaries Father Nicolas Norbante and
Agustin de San Juan. From its foundation, the original town of Dupax was divided into three separate
municipalities: Dupax del sur ; Dupax del Norte and Alfonso Castañeda.

Bayombong

Bayombong was established at the southern part of the present la Torre, where the Bayumbung River
passes through. The name Bayombong came from the Gaddang word “Bayongyong” which means
confluence of a mighty river. Another version has it that “bayongyong” refers to a bamboo, about 2
meters long, used to carry fresh water from wells built along river banks. As told, the Gaddanes never
welcomed the arrival of the Maalates. This resistance triggered the first tribal war resulting from Maalates
retreat to nearby areas. On their retreat they left their valuable possession, their “Bayongyong”. The place
was literally littered with so many abandoned Bayongyong. Since then, the place was named
“Bayumbung”, as a fitting reminder to the Gaddangs of their first taste of victory over invasion of their
private domains. It was delightful for Spanish missionaries to see the natives parading in long queues with
their “Bayongyong” filled with water on their shoulders. When asked by friars about the bamboo water
containers, the carriers chorused “Bayongyong” in response. For conveniences and for lack of fitting
name, the Spanish friars baptized the place “Bayumbung” and later change it to “Bayombong”.