The state of Bicol has a history dating back far beyond the arrival of the

Spaniards. People thrived in the land for centuries, leaving a legacy that
continues to shape the region’s identity. They were called “Ibalong” or “Ibalnong,”
which was later shortened to “Ibalon”. The exact meaning of this name is still
debated, and some even suggest different versions of it. Some refer to as “to
bring to the other side” or “people from far away”, referring to a welcoming culture
that others had believed could be a corruption of “Gibal-ong”., where the first
Spaniards landed in Bicol. Regardless of its literal meaning, “Ibalon” is a
reminder, a marker of the rich cultural heritage that preceded colonial influences.
The Bicol region in the Philippines was shaped by both its environment and
cultural heritage. People had learned and adapted to the frequent typhoons by
building homes using lightweight yet sturdy materials available and accessible
common in the area. Agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, with
coconut and abaca cultivation.