There are many unusual baby names to be found in the Philippines. Here are some examples:
- The name Luzviminda comes from the place names Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao (the three main island-groups of the Philippines) according to BBC reporter Sarah Toms.
- The sister-in-law of Manila Times writer Alito L. Malinao “heard the chirping of a bird” while she was in labor. Inspired by the sound, she named her daughter Twit-twit.
- The name of Makati City mayor Jejomar Binay is derived from the names of Jesus, Joseph and Mary. (Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion in the Philippines.)
- The first name of Senator Joker Arroyo (b. 1927) “derives from his father’s fondness for card playing,” according to Time Magazine writer Howard G. Chua-Eoan. (Joker also has a brother named Jack.)
A number of South American countries are also known for unique baby names.
Source: Malinao, Alito L. “Names.” Manila Times 23 Oct. 2007: A5.