Barangay Bulawen

Barangay Bulawen forms part of Palauig, a municipality in Zambales, and is classified as a large barangay.

According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Barangay Bulawen had a population of 5,284. This made it the 1st largest of 19 barangays in Palauig by population, placing it among the most populous barangays of the municipality. Residents of Barangay Bulawen accounted for approximately 13.28% of the total population of Palauig, which stood at 39,784 in the same census year.

The barangay recorded 4,939 residents in the 2015 intercensal count and 5,284 residents in the 2020 Census — a net change of +7.0%, consistent with a growing settlement. The Philippine Statistics Authority classifies Barangay Bulawen as urban, reflecting the density and built-up character of the area.

Palauig is a municipality comprising 19 barangays, and serves as the governing unit directly responsible for local services in Barangay Bulawen, including public health, sanitation, peace and order, and civil registration. Within the wider province of Zambales, which contains 247 barangays across its component cities and municipalities, Barangay Bulawen ranks 25th by 2020 population. Zambales is classified as a 2nd by the Bureau of Local Government Finance, a category that reflects the province's annual regular income.

Like every Philippine barangay, Barangay Bulawen is led by an elected Punong Barangay (barangay captain) supported by seven Sangguniang Barangay members (kagawads), an SK Chairperson, a Barangay Secretary, and a Barangay Treasurer. The next Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) are scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026, with officials serving four-year terms under Republic Act No. 12232.