For many centuries Filipino baby names have been influenced by the Spanish.  The reason being is that they had colonial rule over the Philipine Islands for 400 years.  However, it is during the last century that English baby names have become more and more popular in the Philipines because of the power influence being put on them by Western and American cultures. 

Often a Filipino baby's name will originate from their native language of Tagalog such as Bayani, Dalisay, Datu, Mayumi and many others.  However, these names are now paling into insignificance and popularity and in danger of going out of use completely.

Certainly a study carried out in 2005 showed that the 10 most popular names given to Filipino boys were Michael, Ronald, Ryan, Joseph, Joel, Jeffrey, Marlon, Richard, Noel and Jonathan.  Whilst for girls the 10 most popular were Maricel, Michelle, Jennifer, Janice, Mary Grace, Jocelyn, Catherine, Mary Anne, Rowena and Grace.

However if as a parent you are looking for something a little more unusual but comes with some beautiful meanings to them then you should look no further than choosing a name from the Philipines.  Below are a list of different names for boys and girls that you may wish to consider for your child.

Filipino Boys Names

1.  Makisig   This means handsome in English.
2.  Gwapo  This means handsome also in English and has very close connotations to the Spanish word of Guapo.
3.  Hari  This in English means king.
4.  Prinsepe  This in English means prince. 

Whilst for the girls we have the following:-

1.  Malaya  Meaning freedom.
2.  Masaya  Which means happy.
3.  Maganada  Meaning pretty
4.  Reyna  Which means Queen in English

However, when ever you are considering to use a Filipino baby's name for your child it is important to remember that they will  have to live with that name as they grow up into adulthood.  So it is vital that you choose a name which will not cause them problems with teasing etc., when they are at school or at work. 

Today there are many sites around which can provide you with various Filipino baby names and their meanings in order that you will be able to discover the one that suits your child the best.