Phillipines birth certificates 1900-1955

Names I've come across while transcribing birth certificates from Phillipines. Many are Spanish virtue names & word names. Others are variations of latin names.
  1. Filomena
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lover of singing"
    • Description:

      See PHILOMENA.
  2. Faustino
    • Description:

      Faustino is a distinguished masculine name with Latin roots, derived from 'Faustus' meaning 'lucky' or 'fortunate.' Popular primarily in Spanish and Italian speaking countries, it carries the essence of good fortune and prosperity. The name gained prominence through Saint Faustino, a 2nd-century Christian martyr from Brescia, Italy. While not extensively used in English-speaking countries, Faustino maintains steady popularity in Hispanic communities and Southern Europe. Those named Faustino are often associated with positive qualities such as optimism and felicity. The name offers melodic charm with its flowing syllables and distinctive ending, making it both traditional yet uncommon in global contexts.

  3. Artemio
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Artemis
    • Description:

      Artemio gives energy to this august Greek mythological name.
  4. Zenaida
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "the life of Zeus"
    • Description:

      This name of a daughter of Zeus has an intriguing air of antiquity.
  5. Prospero
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese variation of Prosper
    • Meaning:

      "succeed, prosper"
    • Description:

      Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
  6. Aleta
    • Description:

      Aleta is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Greek, it's a variation of Alethea, meaning "truth," while some sources connect it to Spanish origins as a diminutive of Alicia. The name also appears in mythology as one of the Nereids, sea nymphs from Greek legends. Aleta enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. The name has a melodic, flowing quality with its simple three-syllable structure and soft sounds. Aleta strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness—recognizable without being common. Its classical roots give it timeless appeal, while its slight exoticism adds interest. Parents might choose Aleta seeking a name with historical depth that still feels fresh and underused in contemporary contexts.

  7. Conchita
    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Concepcion
    • Description:

      Concepcion dressed in red satin.
  8. Fortunato
    • Description:

      Fortunato is a masculine name of Italian and Spanish origin derived from the Latin 'fortunatus' meaning 'lucky,' 'fortunate,' or 'blessed.' With roots in ancient Roman culture, this expressive name has been used since medieval times, often given in the hope of bestowing good fortune on a child. While common in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, it remains relatively rare in English-speaking regions, giving it an exotic, distinctive quality. The name carries rich literary associations, most notably as a character in Edgar Allan Poe's famous story 'The Cask of Amontillado.' Fortunato has a melodious, romantic sound typical of Italian names, and its meaningful connection to luck and prosperity makes it an optimistic choice with historical depth.
  9. Modesta
    • Description:

      Modesta is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'modestus' meaning 'modest' or 'moderate.' It embodies the virtue of humility and unassuming grace. The name has historical usage particularly in Spanish, Italian, and Lithuanian cultures, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Modesta enjoyed some popularity in earlier centuries when virtue names were more common but has become increasingly rare in modern times. The name has a classic, almost regal quality with its flowing syllables and meaningful roots. Parents might choose Modesta for its beautiful sound, distinctive nature, and the positive character trait it represents, hoping to inspire these virtues in their daughter.

  10. Bienvenido
    • Description:

      Bienvenido is a masculine Spanish name directly translating to 'welcome' or 'well-come.' Derived from Latin 'bene' (well) and 'venire' (to come), it originated as a meaningful name given to long-awaited or specially celebrated children. The name is most common in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in the Philippines and Dominican Republic, where Spanish naming traditions remain strong. While not among the most frequent Spanish names, Bienvenido carries warm connotations of hospitality, acceptance, and joy. It follows the Spanish tradition of using words with positive meanings as personal names, similar to Esperanza (hope) or Dolores (sorrows).
  11. Perfecto
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "perfect"
    • Description:

      Spanish speakers use this name for Jesus Christ only. Probably a good policy.
  12. Iluminada
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "illuminated"
    • Description:

      A distinctive, rhythmic, and lovely Spanish name that suggests enlightenment.
  13. Benigno
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "kind, wellborn"
    • Description:

      From the root that gives us "benign," Benigno is not as accessible in English-speaking cultures as such names as Bruno and Benicio. Filipino Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr., went by his nickname Ninoy.
  14. Godofredo
    • Description:

      Godofredo is a masculine name with Germanic roots that traveled through Spanish and Portuguese language evolution. It derives from the Germanic elements 'god' meaning 'god' and 'fred' meaning 'peace,' essentially translating to 'God's peace' or 'peaceful ruler under God.' The name is the Hispanic version of Gottfried or Geoffrey. More common in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Godofredo carries a noble, dignified quality with religious undertones. While not frequently used in modern naming practices, it maintains popularity in traditional Latin communities and among families honoring heritage. The name's historic connections to nobility and faith give it a distinguished, classical character that stands apart from contemporary naming trends.
  15. Natividad
    • Origin:

      Spanish from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "nativity"
    • Description:

      Traditionally given to girls born on the September birth date of the Virgin Mary.
  16. Herminio
    • Description:

      Herminio is a masculine name with deep Latin and Spanish roots, derived from Hermes, the Greek messenger god associated with communication, wit, and travel. Popular in Spanish-speaking countries and communities, Herminio has a dignified, classical quality while remaining relatively uncommon in the United States. The name carries connotations of intelligence and eloquence, reflecting its mythological origins. Traditionally passed down through generations in Hispanic families, Herminio often connects a child to his cultural heritage and ancestry. The name features a harmonious flow with its soft consonants and vowel ending, typical of many Spanish masculine names. While not widely used in English-speaking contexts, it represents a strong cultural choice with historical depth.
  17. Pascual
    • Origin:

      Spanish form of Pascal
    • Meaning:

      "Easter"
  18. Peregrino
    • Description:

      Peregrino is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'peregrinus' meaning 'pilgrim,' 'traveler,' or 'foreigner.' This name carries rich historical and spiritual significance, particularly in Catholic traditions where pilgrimage holds special meaning. In Spanish-speaking countries, Peregrino is recognized but uncommon, often associated with religious devotion and spiritual journeys. The name evokes images of exploration, spiritual seeking, and the humility of the pilgrim's path. While rare as a first name, it appears occasionally as a surname or place name. Parents might choose Peregrino for its profound meaning and connection to faith traditions, or to honor family heritage. The name has a melodic quality with its rolling 'r' sounds and rhythmic syllables.
  19. Herminia
    • Description:

      Herminia is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from the Greek god Hermes, messenger of the gods. This elegant name means 'messenger' or 'interpreter.' Herminia has historical significance in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, where it has maintained steady usage for centuries. The name combines classical origins with a melodic, feminine quality. Herminia reached its peak popularity in the early 20th century but continues to appeal to parents drawn to vintage names with historical depth. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Herminia offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar names like Hermione. The name conveys dignity, intelligence, and cultural richness, making it appealing to families seeking a name with substance and traditional elegance.
  20. Preciosa
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "precious, valuable"
    • Description:

      See PRECIOUS.