patron saint, Saint Anthony of Padua. Long before
its official organization, the territory was a dense, swampy
wilderness originally called “Delinquente” or
“Sitio Delinquente” by Spanish colonial authorities, a name
derived from the outlaws and rebels who historically used the
dense thickets along the Pampanga River as a hideout. The
settlement was initially established by migrating families from
Pampanga who cleared the land for agriculture. On May 10, 1843,
through a petition led by early settlers and approved by Spanish
Governor-General Marcelino de Oraá Lecumberri, the town was
separated from Gapan and officially established as an independent
municipality.
San Antonio is strategically tucked in the southwestern section
of Nueva Ecija, bordered by the municipalities of Cabiao, San
Isidro, and Zaragoza, as well as the province of Tarlac. According
to the latest census data, the municipality has a thriving
population of 84,660 residents. It serves as a prime agricultural
town, widely celebrated for its fertile plains and its reputation
as one of the major rice-producing hubs in the province. While its
public market and local trade hubs continue to urbanize, extensive
rice cultivation, corn farming, livestock production, and inland
freshwater fishing remain the ultimate economic lifeblood and
primary source of livelihood for its local citizens.
Local Officials (2025–2028 Term)
Mayor: Arvin Jun “AJ” C. Salonga
Vice Mayor (SB Presiding Officer): Julie “Jules” R. Maxwell
Councilors (Sangguniang Bayan Members):
- Renan “Ren” P. Morales
- Adonis “Don” S. Balagtas
- Zonito “Zon” C. Lustre
- Regidor “Regie” S. Salonga
- Digna “Digs” L. Valmonte
- Claro “Jun” L. Galang Jr.
- Crispin “Cris” M. Miranda
- Nenita “Nene” M. Gatus
