Historical Background
of the
Municipality of Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte

Barangay Himatagon, one of the most progressive barangays under the jurisdiction of Cabalian, Leyte ( now San Juan) was also considered as the biggest and most densely populated at the time. As the barrio progressed economically, socially and politically, the inhabitants felt the need of self governance. The civic spirited citizens gatherd and discussed the creation of the barrio into an independent entity.

Graciano H. Capili sent petitions to higher authorities appealing to them asking the conversion of the said barrio into a municipality. It took several years of continuous plea for recognition though his initiative, moving spirit and the untiring efforts of former Governor Bernardo Torres of Leyte, the late President Ramon Magsaysay enacted Executive Order No. 84 converting the barrio Himatagon into a Municipality of Saint Bernard. It came into existence on December 9, 1954.

The following are the first set of appointed Municipal Officials:

It was also during the incumbency of Mayor Graciano H. Capili That there were only nineteen barangays recognized and inhabited by its citizens.
The specific barangays includes the following in its alphabetical order.

1. Atuyan                                         
2. Ayahag                                     
3. Bolodbolod                                  
4. Cabac-an                                      
5. Cabagawan                                   
6. Carnaga                                        
7. Catmon                                        
8. Guinsaugon                                  
9. Himbangan                                   
10. Hindag-an
11. Lipanto
12. Magbagacay
13. Mahayahay
14. Malibago
15. Panian
16. San Isidro
17. Sug-angon
18. Tambis
19. Himatagon (Poblacion) seat of government

After several years of its existence, the governance, of course, with the good and worthwhile leadership of the said mayor, was able to construct/build a good wharf, river controls, sea wall, feeder roads, public market, a barrio high school, health centers, drinking facilities and a sound irrigation system.