Origin of the Name

The name "Lianga" is believed to be derived from the Lumad word "Li-an," which translates to a "place of abundance" or "fertile land," reflecting the area's historical perception as a resource-rich territory blessed with bountiful natural resources.

Colonial Era & Early History

The area that includes Lianga was part of an encomienda established as early as 1655 under the command of Sergeant Martin Sanchez dela Cuesta. This encomienda covered areas including Tandag (the capital), Tago, Marihatag, and Lianga, making it one of the earliest recorded settlements in the Caraga region.

Official Establishment

Lianga was officially established as a municipality by virtue of Executive Order No. 27 on October 17, 1919, making it one of the oldest towns in the province of Surigao del Sur. It is recognized as the "mother municipality" from which several neighboring towns were later created.

Territorial Evolution

Historically, Lianga occupied a much larger land area. As political subdivisions were formed, several present-day municipalities were carved out from Lianga's territory:

• San Agustin (formerly Oteiza) — created under Executive Order No. 445 in 1951
• Barobo — created through Executive Order Nos. 407 and 2786 on October 24, 1960
• Marihatag — formerly part of the "BLOM" area (Barobo, Lianga, Oteiza, Marihatag)

Lianga Today

Today, Lianga is a 4th-class municipality situated along Lianga Bay, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Diwata Mountains to the west. Following the creation of the province of Surigao del Sur via Republic Act 2786 in 1960, significant development and administrative formalization shaped the municipality into what it is today. Lianga continues to be characterized by its agricultural and fishing-based economy, as well as its efforts to preserve its cultural heritage, such as through the Inatu Festival.