It was in 1751 when the Spanish friars first established their settlement. 116 years later, Tolong Nuevo (Bayawan’s former name) had existed as early as 1868 as part of Tolong Viejo (now the Municipality of Sta. Catalina). It was not until 1872 when she was formally organized as a pueblo.
In 1953, the name Tolong Nuevo was changed to Bayawan, by virtue of Republic Act 694 as approved by the 3rd congress of the Philippines, consigning the name "Tolong" into obscurity and deep oblivion soon slowly to be forgotten by the succeeding generations.
From the former name "Tolong", it was changed to Bayawan in a tragic tale that involved a "Bukidnon", the so-called natives of Bayawan and a priest. The town center was previously located in an uphill settlement called ’Omod’ now Brgy. Maninihon. A chapel was erected to serve the religious needs of the new converts. One Sunday morning while the priest was celebrating the Holy Eucharist, an enraged "Bukidnon" barged in the middle of the assembly. In the act of consecration, while the priest was elevating the Holy Host, this enraged "Bukidnon" threw a lance to the priest, instantly killing him.
The so-called native of Bayawan, the "Bukidnon" had this ritual called "Mag-ahat--a ritual practice involving the act of killing. The practice of "Mag-ahat" was to avenge the death of their fellow tribesman to appease the spirit of the deceased.
The tragic event left an indelible mark in the minds of the local folks. Thus, the name "Bayawan" from the Visayan term "Bayaw"--to hoist or elevate.
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