This island municipality came to be a part of the Philippines Archipelago through and by the three accepted theories of the existing continents. These are the divine theory and the theories of evolution and diastrophism. Ever since, this municipality is an integral part of the Uala Islands which is now of INFANTA - POLILLO GROUP.

It's name originated from various versions. Most accepted is that the name is derived from the word Katanungan. Old folks of the early settlers believed that this was caused by the frequent and good venison sold to inhabitants of the towns along Lamon Bay. Settlers of Patnanungan who goes to other towns to sell or barter the cured and dried venison is always asked as to where they get plenty of venison and where is Patnanungan situated. Because of this inquiries so frequently asked, it became a key word among old folks which gave rise to the present name of Patnanungan.

Republic Act Number 2370 created this town into a Municipal district on September 9, 1962. Ex - Congressman Manuel S. Enverga sponsored this Act.

Patnanungan Sur as the seat of the Municipal government was formerly a sitio of barrio Kanikanian, Polillo, Quezon in the early part of the fifties. When Burdeos, Quezon became a municipality, Patnanungan, thence was a barrio.

Situated east of Polillo Island with an aggregate area of 8,870 hectares, Patnanungan is composed of 6 barangays. Tourist potentials are the clean beaches, sceneries and abundant fishing grounds. Added to this are the smaller islands and several rocks for picknickers during low tide. To name some are the rocks of Ikikon, Macalob and the Bere Island. Minasawa being a bird sanctuary is one of its main attractions for it is rich in birds of several species.

In the Pre-Spanish era this island was very rich in fauna and flora. During the Spanish period adventurers from the towns of Polillo, Infanta and Mauban reached this place. Under American regime Japanese loggers have operated along the ooast for rail tiles of Ipil logs. People of Patnanungan consider "The Battle of Tibalao Creek" as the most important event during the Japanese occupation where foot patrol of the Imperial Army was engaged by Guerillas under Anderson Unit.

Town fiesta and holidays at present are celebrated with outmost simplicity and frugality. National Holidays are participated by employees of the govemment and civic leaders. Town fiesta is celebrated every 15th day of May. This is marked by display of agricultural products, which are hung along the processional route of the patron Saint Isidore, the patron saint of agriculture.