Baliwag is a first-class urban municipality located in the province of Bulacan, in Central Luzon, Philippines. The town is situated in the northern part of Bulacan and is 45 kilometers away from Manila. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and booming commerce.
Baliwag is one of the oldest municipalities in Bulacan, with a history dating back to the 16th century. According to local lore, Baliwag derived its name from the word “balawag,” which means a type of fish that used to be abundant in the area. The town was established in 1733, during the Spanish colonial period, and was initially part of the town of Quingua, now known as Plaridel.
During the Spanish colonial period, Baliwag was mainly an agricultural town, with rice and sugarcane as the primary crops. The town also became a hub for trade and commerce, with the establishment of a market in the town center. The town's economy continued to thrive during the American colonial period, with the opening of new businesses and the expansion of agriculture.
Baliwag played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonization. In 1896, local revolutionaries under the leadership of Gen. Gregorio del Pilar and Col. Alejandrino fought against the Spanish forces in Baliwag. The revolutionaries were successful in capturing the town, and it became a center of operations for the revolutionary forces in the province.
In 1901, during the Philippine-American War, Baliwag was the site of a major battle between the American forces and the Philippine revolutionary forces. The American forces, led by Gen. Frederick Funston, attacked the town and defeated the Philippine forces, effectively ending the revolution in Bulacan.
Baliwag continued to grow and develop in the 20th century, with the establishment of new industries and the improvement of infrastructure. The town became a center of commerce, with the establishment of malls and commercial centers. Baliwag is also known for its vibrant culture, with the celebration of the town's annual fiesta, which honors its patron saint, St. Augustine.
As of 2021, Baliwag has a population of around 150,000 people. The town's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with rice and sugarcane as the primary crops. The town is also home to several industries, including food processing, textiles, and furniture making.
The political environment and geography of Baliwag have had a significant impact on the town's history and development. Baliwag's location, near major transportation routes, has made it a hub for trade and commerce. The town's proximity to Manila has also made it an attractive location for businesses, and it has become a center of commerce in the province.
Baliwag is a town with a rich history and vibrant culture. Its economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with rice and sugarcane as the primary crops, but it has also become a center of commerce in the province. The town played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonization, and it continues to thrive and develop in the 21st century.