The History of Bolinao, Pangasinan
One of the good places to visit in the province of Pangasinan is the town of Bolinao. It is also one of the coastal areas in the province which is ready to welcome opportunities from neighboring countries.
The history of the said place plays a vital role and part of its significance in the history of the country. Bolinao was founded by Capt. Pedro Lombi in 1575, an island known as “Binabalian” meaning “old town” with few hundred settlers. However, it was transferred later to Bolinao mainland due to piratical molestation.
In 1585, Father Esteban Marinas, the first Augustinian priest, started the evangelization of the town. In 1607, a Roman Catholic Church was built. This Hispanic church building still remains intact and is presently considered as one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is also one of the landmark and tourist attractions of Bolinao.
Bolinao and other western Pangasinan towns were once part of Zambales. It was the year 1903 when Bolinao and other western towns were transferred to Pangasinan due to its proximity to the capital town of Lingayen.