Kibungan was a virgin forest and a sparsely populated area. During those days, the most feared creatures were the so-called “busol” or head hunters. As a result of this head hunting activity, some people of Mankayan, Buguias and Bakun moved southward and settled in the place. Sometime later, an American writer who was fond of adventure went to visit and observe the customs and traditions of the inhabitants. While he was there, he often heard the beautiful sounds of the gongs echoing on the towering rocky mountainsides during cañaos. To him, the sounds gave “kibong-kibong” rhythm. Hence, from the “kibong-kibong” sounds frequently heard, Kibungan’s name was coined.
However, some old folks claim that it was derived from a specie of monkeys called by the natives “kibong” that inhabited the lofty virgin forest several years ago.
Hunting was a major activity during the early days where hunters who reached Kibungan established their home there. More people came in and the population of the place grew.
Kibungan has seven barangays, namely: Badeo, Lubo, Madaymen, Palina, Poblacion, Sagpat and Tacadang. One hundred fifty-six sitios compose the whole municipality
