Taylans in the
Philippines
In the Philippines, the surname Taylan is not very common, except for Ilocos
Norte Province and around the town of Dingras. In the Philippines, the name is
pronounced 'Tai-Lon' but spelled the same. It is said that the first settlers
of Dingras were of Indonesian origin. Later, Malasian people occupied the area,
who drove away the Inonesians. About the end of the 18th century, these ethnic
groups were raided by the Christians from the lowlands. Among their brave warriors
were Onze, Angin, Langao and Dungguing. These leaders led their warriors in many
furious battles, however, they were defeated because of their inferiority, both
in arms and in number. Thus, more immigrants occupied the lowlands and' the ethnic
people retreated to the mountains where their descendants can be located up to
now. The latest immigrants were from Sarrat, Piddig and San Nicolas; others came
from Ilocos Sur, Abra and La Union. During the Spanish era of the Philippines,
Spaniarsh searched the area for gold and lived under their colonial rule.
Turkish Connection
In the middle 1800's (?) two Turkish traders, Ali Hasn Taylan and ????? Taylan
established a store in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, Luzon and inter-married or fathered children
in the area.
Taylan in WWII Philippines
At least three Taylans are listed at the Capas National Shrine, as
having died at Camp O'Donnel in Papanga, Philippines. They are Pedro Taylan,
Perdo Taylan and Timoteo Taylan. Others, fought in the guerilla movement in
Dingras and died at the hands of the Japanese, in wartime accidents and combat. [Photos by Justin Taylan 2005]