Lost 'Biringan City' found in an old Spanish document

MANILA, Philippines – For generations, the legendary city of Biringan has captivated the imagination of Samareños and folklore enthusiasts across the Philippines. Described as a hidden metropolis inhabited by supernatural beings known as “engkantos,” Biringan has long been regarded as a mythical place existing beyond the boundaries of ordinary reality.

However, a recently highlighted archival document may offer a surprising historical perspective on the famous legend.

According to historian and Samar State University professor Jhonil C. Bajado, a Spanish-era land deed explicitly references a location called "Sitio de Beringan" within the former barrio of Pagsanghan under the municipality of Tarangnan, Samar.

The document records the sale of a three-hectare parcel of land from Felix Ramos to Gaudencio Farrales for 40 pesos.

The deed not only identifies Beringan as a physical place but also details neighboring landowners and church property, providing evidence that the area was recognized within the colonial administrative system.

Such records suggest that Beringan was once a real settlement where residents lived, farmed, and conducted legal transactions.

Photo courtesy: Jhonil Bajado/Facebook

Researchers believe the legendary Biringan may have evolved from this historical sitio. Geographic isolation, changing municipal boundaries, and the eventual disappearance of small settlements from official maps may have contributed to its transformation into folklore.

Over time, stories of a lost community could have merged with traditional Visayan beliefs about spirit realms and supernatural beings.

Another factor may be linguistic evolution. Scholars note that the spelling "Beringan" could have gradually shifted to "Biringan" through common pronunciation changes in the Waray language.

The discovery has sparked renewed interest among historians and local researchers, who are calling for a systematic review of Spanish-era records and early tax documents.

If further evidence emerges, Biringan may be remembered not only as a legendary city of the unseen but also as a forgotten chapter in Samar's rich history.

— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express