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. Prospero
    • Origin:

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

      "succeed, prosper"
    • Description:

      Shakespeare's Tempest has kept the name Prospero alive.
  2. Conchita
    • Origin:

      Spanish, diminutive of Concepcion
    • Description:

      Concepcion dressed in red satin.
  3. 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.

  4. Artemio
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of Artemis
    • Description:

      Artemio gives energy to this august Greek mythological name.
  5. Filomena
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lover of singing"
    • Description:

      See PHILOMENA.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. Zenaida
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "the life of Zeus"
    • Description:

      This name of a daughter of Zeus has an intriguing air of antiquity.
  10. Flaviana
    • Description:

      Flaviana is a feminine name with ancient Roman roots, derived from the Latin family name 'Flavius,' which means 'golden' or 'blonde-haired.' It was historically associated with the Flavian dynasty of Roman emperors. The name carries an elegant, classical quality and remains somewhat rare, predominantly found in Latin countries including Italy, Spain, Portugal, and throughout Latin America. Flaviana combines melodic beauty with historical significance, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical depth. The name suggests qualities of nobility, brightness, and classical beauty. Despite its ancient origins, Flaviana has a timeless quality that continues to attract parents looking for a unique yet traditionally rooted name.
  11. Pascual
    • Origin:

      Spanish form of Pascal
    • Meaning:

      "Easter"
  12. Paciencia
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "patience"
    • Description:

      See PATIENCE.
  13. 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.
  14. Natividad
    • Origin:

      Spanish from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "nativity"
    • Description:

      Traditionally given to girls born on the September birth date of the Virgin Mary.
  15. 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.

  16. Perfecto
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "perfect"
    • Description:

      Spanish speakers use this name for Jesus Christ only. Probably a good policy.
  17. 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.
  18. Iluminada
    • Origin:

      Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "illuminated"
    • Description:

      A distinctive, rhythmic, and lovely Spanish name that suggests enlightenment.
  19. Estrellita
    • Description:

      Estrellita is a charming feminine name of Spanish origin, meaning 'little star.' It functions as the diminutive form of Estrella ('star'), with the suffix '-ita' adding an endearing quality. This melodious name carries celestial connotations and evokes brightness, hope, and guidance—all qualities associated with stars across cultures. Popular primarily in Spanish-speaking communities, Estrellita has a lyrical, musical quality enhanced by its connection to the beloved Spanish folk song of the same name. The name balances delicacy with a certain sparkle, making it both sweet and memorable. While not among the most common Spanish names, Estrellita offers parents a distinctive choice with clear meaning and cultural roots, appealing to those seeking a name with both poetic sound and uplifting significance.
  20. 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).