Formerly a sitio and later a barrio in Dapa known as Bunga, it was established as a municipality on February 22, 1961, by virtue of Executive Order No.

A popular folklore suggested that the name originated from a Spanish priest's plea for help when his sailboat nearly capsized amid a storm while he was en route to officiate Mass in 1920.

Brave local men of the then-sitio rushed to assist, saving the priest and his companions.

Notable wildlife species in the limestone forests include the tarsier, hornbill, and civet cat.

Other attractions include several accessible lakes, Magkahuyog Falls, and extensive mangrove areas.