Why is this place called Barangka? The answer lies in the area’s unique terrain. Barangka got its name from the Spanish word “barranca”. It means canyon. This name reflects the steep and hilly landscape that defines Barangka.
Barangka is an urban barangay in Marikina Metro Manila. It holds a significant place in Marikina’s history. It is one of the oldest barangays here. Established on June 21 1959 Barangka is part of Marikina’s 1st district. Efren Managuit currently serves as Punong Barangay.
Located along Marikina’s southwestern border Barangka acts as a gateway. The Marikina–Infanta Highway and A. Bonifacio Avenue pass through it. These roads connect Quezon City and Marikina. They also link to San Mateo and Rodriguez in Rizal. Because of this Barangka is a key entry and exit point for those traveling between Metro Manila and Rizal.
Barangka shares borders with several other barangays and cities. To the west it meets Loyola Heights in Quezon City. To the south lie Industrial Valley and Calumpang. Tañong is to the east. Finally Loyola Grand Villas sits to the north.
Barangka’s history stretches back to the early days of Marikina. The area was known as chorrillo. This small stream was significant when the Augustinians and Jesuits arrived. Today Chorillo remains a street in this barangay.
Interestingly Barangka was briefly under Quezon City’s jurisdiction. From 1939 to 1941 it was part of Quezon City. Before being returned to Marikina. A 1942 map shows Barangka as part of the Diliman district. This district included Quezon City from 1942 to 1945.
Barangka achieved barangay status through Republic Act No. 2601. This act was passed on June 21 1959. It also elevated Parang and Nangka to barangay status.
Barangka sits on the foothills of Quezon City. It also lies over the West Valley fault system. The barangay covers 116.96 hectares. That is about 1.17 square kilometers. With a population of 16639 it is the most densely populated barangay in Marikina. The Marikina River and its parks border Barangka to the south.
Barangka offers a variety of community facilities. These include the Barangka Barangay Hall and Town Plaza. There is also the Barangka City Health Center and Covered Gymnasium. Other facilities include a multipurpose hall police station public cemetery workshop and fitness center. Several villages and subdivisions make up Barangka. These include Ateneo Housing Dela Costa Homes and Loyola Grand Villas.
Several landmarks and buildings dot the landscape. Ateneo De Manila University’s Marikina side is here. Loyola Memorial Park provides a place for remembrance. Riverbanks Center offers shopping dining and entertainment.
Barangka provides educational opportunities with several schools. These include Barangka Elementary School and National High School. Several churches also serve the community. These include the Iglesia ni Cristo Local ng Barangka and Queen of Angels Chapel Riverbanks.
Major roads connect Barangka to the surrounding areas. These include the Marikina-Infanta Highway and Andres Bonifacio Avenue. Several bridges and overpasses also facilitate transportation. These include the Barangka Flyover and Marcos Bridge.
Barangka is more than just a place. It is a community with a rich history. From its origins as a hilly area to its present day status as a thriving barangay Barangka continues to evolve.