Most Filipino surnames are Spanish — the legacy of a remarkable event. In 1849, the Clavería decree issued a catalogue of Spanish surnames (the Catálogo alfabético de apellidos) and assigned them to families across the Philippines to standardise names for administration. That’s why names like Dela Cruz, Santos, Reyes and Bautista are so common — and why many are religious.

Indigenous and Chinese roots too

Alongside the Spanish majority are indigenous surnames from Tagalog, Kapampangan and other languages (Magsaysay, Panganiban, Macapagal) and Chinese-Filipino names (Gatchalian), reflecting the country’s layered history.

Frequently asked questions

Why are Filipino surnames Spanish?

Because of the 1849 Claveru00eda decree, which assigned Spanish surnames from a catalogue to families across the Philippines. Thatu2019s why so many are Spanish and religious.

What is the most common Filipino surname?

Dela Cruz, meaning u201cof the cross,u201d is the most common Filipino surname.

Are all Filipino surnames Spanish?

No u2014 most are, but there are also indigenous surnames (Magsaysay, Panganiban) and Chinese-Filipino ones (Gatchalian).

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