Pangasinan word “Nagpicuan”, which translates to
a “curve in the road”. This historically refers to a winding
trail known to early travelers as the “Curva”, which was a key
point where the path from Moncada, Tarlac abruptly turned
northeast toward Cuyapo. Long before its organization, the
settlement was a small sitio called Surgue or Suli, built up in
the 1880s by migrating Ilocano families from Paoay. Originally
part of Cuyapo, Nampicuan was officially established as an
independent municipality on September 20, 1907, under Act No.
1717 passed by the Philippine Commission.
Nampicuan is strategically tucked in the westernmost section of
Nueva Ecija, acting as a quiet gateway bordering the province of
Tarlac. According to the latest Philippine Statistics Authority
census data, the municipality records a population of 15,297
residents, holding the title of the least populated municipality
in Nueva Ecija. It serves as a highly revered spiritual and
pilgrimage hub in Central Luzon, widely visited for the
Sanctuary of the Holy Face of Jesus at the
Immaculate Conception Parish, which permanently houses an
official, rare relic replica from Manoppello, Italy. To celebrate
its local heritage, the town hosts its annual fiesta every
September alongside religious gatherings honoring its patron
saint, St. Michael the Archangel.
Local Officials
Mayor: Mario G. Lacurom
Vice Mayor (SB Presiding Officer): Victor M. Badar
Councilors (Sangguniang Bayan Members):
- Reginaldo C. Pascual
- Bessie S. Tacas
- Jervy A. Cruz
- Jay S. Santos
- Roberto S. Marquez
- Kathlene M. Saclao
- Marlou P. Gamboa
- Marlon E. Celestino
