The town of Bulan has a long and interesting history. Its name comes from the local word meaning moon or luminary, and a popular story says that early Spanish explorers chose this name after seeing the bright moon with local guides, who excitedly pointed it out to them. Before the Spanish arrived, the area was already home to fishing and farming communities along the coast.

During the Spanish colonial period, Bulan became part of the province of Albay and was once an important settlement. However, attacks by Moro raiders in the mid-1700s destroyed the town, and many people fled, leaving Bulan abandoned for decades. On January 1, 1801, Spanish-era leaders officially refounded the town along the Mariboc River. It was recognized as a pueblo under Albay, with its first local officials appointed to lead the community.

Despite facing natural disasters like powerful typhoons and the spread of disease, the people of Bulan continued to rebuild and grow. Over time, Bulan’s location as a coastal and trading town helped it develop economically. Its port became a busy hub for fishing and trade with nearby islands and provinces. Today, Bulan is known as one of the most populated towns in Sorsogon province. Its history shows the town’s strength and resilience — rising again after struggles and becoming a place rich in culture, tradition, and community spirit.