Barangay Pararao was once surrounded by a thick forest, rich with trees, wild orchids, and wildlife. Transportation was difficult in the area until the 1930s when the Mangente family owned a wooden sailing boat called “Parao” (meaning “sailing boat” in Bicol). The boat was used to travel to Negros Occidental, Lucena, and Manila, engaging in barter trade of products like sugar, rice, and canned goods in exchange for lumber, which was abundant in the area. This barter system, which lasted across three barangays, eventually ended when the boat encountered problems and became stranded on the shoreline, eventually breaking down. Over time, the name “Parao” evolved into “Pararao,” which is the current name of the barangay.

The patron saint of Barangay Pararao is San Antonio de Padua, and the annual fiesta is celebrated every 4th of January. The first leader of the barangay was Kapitan Del Barrio Sixto Beato, and the current leader is Punong Barangay Cherry B. Renolayan.