Choosing a name for your little one is a significant and memorable task. It’s more than just a name but a representation of their identity – their first gift from you, their parents. In the rich tapestry of Filipino culture, we are blessed with a treasure trove of beautiful, unique, and meaningful names. This post explores 40 Filipino names for your reference, 20 each for boys and girls. From traditional to modern, these names hold profound meanings and symbolize the beautiful virtues we wish for our children.
Names for Girls:
- Mayumi – “modest”
- Liwayway – “dawn”
- Ganda – “beautiful”
- Ligaya – “joy” or “happiness”
- Malaya – “free”
- Isabella: A form of Elizabeth, which means “pledged to God” in Hebrew. A popular name choice for its elegant sound and regal implication.
- Filomena: From the Greek name Philomena, meaning “strongly loving” or “friend of strength”. It conveys the Filipino trait of strong familial affection.
- Amihan: In Filipino mythology, Amihan is the first creature to exist, and is associated with the northeast monsoon or wind. The name invokes a sense of power and pristineness.
- Gabriela: It’s the feminine form of Gabriel, meaning “God is my strong man.” It’s also the name of a well-known women’s advocacy group in the Philippines, Gabriela Women’s Party.
- Callista: From the Greek word “kallista” meaning “most beautiful”. It conveys charm and elegance.
- Danika: The name has Slavic origins, meaning “morning star.” It evokes images of brightness and hope.
- Althea: Derived from the Greek word “althein”, meaning “to heal”. In a Filipino context, it might resonate as having strength and recovering from hardship.
- Luningning: A pure Filipino word meaning “brightness” or “brilliance”, often used to embody hope and joy in challenging times.
- Beatriz: The Spanish form of Beatrice, meaning “bringer of joy.” It carries an aura of happiness and positivity.
- Esperanza: This name means “hope” in Spanish, a trait commonly held and shared among Filipinos.
- Marikit: A beautiful Filipino name that means “beautiful” in Tagalog.
- Rosalinda: Spanish for “beautiful like a rose”. It combines the beauty of nature and a woman into one.
- Floriana: Derived from the Latin name Florianus, meaning “flowery”. The name Floriana celebrates the beauty and grace of Filipino women.
- Anika: Of Hebrew origin, it means “favor” or “grace”.
- Zarah: A variation of Sarah, which means “princess” in Hebrew. The `Z’ adds a modern touch to this traditional name.
Names for Boys:
- Bagani – “warrior”
- Mayon – named after the famous perfect-cone volcano in Albay, Philippines
- Bayani – “hero”
- Lakan – “nobleman” in pre-colonial Philippines
- Mateo: This is the Filipino form of Matthew, which means “Gift of God.” In Filipino context, it’s gaining popularity as it offers a blend of traditional and modern feel.
- Gabriel: Gabriel is a biblical name, given to the Archangel who announced the news of Jesus’ birth; the name means “God is my strength.”
- Alejandro: The Filipino form of Alexander, which means “defender of mankind.” It’s associated with great leaders, such as Alexander the Great.
- Rafael: From the Hebrew name, Raphael, meaning “God has healed.” Rafael is also one of the seven archangels in Christian tradition.
- Lorenzo: The Filipino form of Lawrence, meaning “from Laurentum,” a town in ancient Italy. It also brings to mind Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint.
- Andres: The Filipino form of Andrew, meaning “manly” or “brave.” It’s also reminiscent of Andres Bonifacio, a famed hero in Philippine history.
- Emmanuel: A biblical name that translates to “God is with us,” denoting divine presence and protection.
- Dominic: Coming from Latin origins, it means “belonging to God.” It’s associated with Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order.
- Santiago: A Spanish name, meaning “Saint James.” Santiago City in Isabela, Philippines, is named after this saint.
- Antonio: Of Latin origin, meaning “priceless one” or “worthy of praise.” It carries a certain old-world charm and sophistication.
- Joaquin: Originating from Spanish, it means “God will establish.” It’s a name that evokes strength and stability.
- Miguel: The Filipino form of Michael, meaning “Who is like God?” This name also relates back to Saint Michael, the Archangel.
- Sebastian: Meaning “venerable” or “revered,” it’s a name with Latin origins. San Sebastian is a common name for places and institutions in the Philippines.
- Jericho: Derived from a biblical place, the name Jericho means “city of the moon”. It’s associated with new beginnings.
- Diego: It’s a Spanish name and variant of James. In Filipino context, it’s commonly associated with Diego Silang, a notable Ilocano rebel leader.
- Elias: A Greek form of the Hebrew name Elijah, meaning “Yahweh is God.” It’s a name with strong biblical connections.
Whether you decide on a traditional name rooted in mythology, draw from regional inspirations, or opt for a contemporary Filipino name, remember that the true beauty lies in the love and meaning you infuse into your child’s name. May this guide inspire and guide you on this wonderful naming journey, and may your little one’s name be a source of pride, joy, and connection to their Filipino heritage.