As I was working on another article it occurred to me, as it often does, that I never quite know how to refer to this little island off the coast of Davao. Seems my preference is Samal Island. I’m not sure if I prefer that because it’s a little easier to type than the Island Garden City of Samal, or if it just sounds more natural. The Island Garden City of Samal is official, though, and I certainly want to make sure I represent that.
Most everyone knows that that Samal Island changed it’s name due to the three largest municipalities, Babak, Kaputian and Penaplata (Samal) incorporating the entire island into one city. So you end up with Samal Island not only being an island but also a city. I’m pretty sure if they tried they could have come up with a name that was slightly less cumbersome. Abbreviating it hardly helps, as IGaCoS doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue either.
When it comes down to it Samal is even easier and I like to throw that in there, especially if I’ve referred to Samal Island or the Island Garden City of Samal previously. That could possibly be confusing, as there is a city in the Philippines called Samal. Since my blog is about Samal Island, I figure I can get away with it and everyone knows what I’m talking about.
What’s your preference, or do you think it doesn’t really matter?
May 23, 2009 @ 15:55:15
we actually just call it samal or samal island.(i.e. “q: where is the resort?” “a: oh, it’s in samal”).
the acronym is more of an official name that i’m pretty sure many locals can’t really remember the whole line. so go ahead with the samal thing.
May 23, 2009 @ 20:27:02
Hi Macky – thanks, that’s what feels most natural to me.
Jun 11, 2009 @ 05:15:18
hi, you’ve got it right! samal is still the easiest and nicest sound to hear as IGaCoS, hehehee…sorry folks (who initializes in changing the name!). well, i normally also says: i’m from samal island…i’m proud of it! and thanks for your support…see you once again there if you happen to visit the island, visit rocky beach in catagman. best regards, oskeeh
Jun 11, 2009 @ 06:14:26
Hi oskeeh – thanks for your input. Sounds like Samal Island or just Samal works for just about everyone. I’ll keep putting IGaCoS or the Island Garden City of Samal in there on occasion just to change it up.