Historical data show that San Rafael is   the only barrio before with its name derived from its patron saint- San Rafael san Rafael west , more popularly known from its old name Calupaan, is the former Sitio Calupaan of barrio san Rafael and is located in the westernmost portion of the barrio and is bounded on the west by the Sabangan River , on the east by Barangay San Rafael Centro , on the north by Brgy. Cabuloan and on the south by the Ambayaoan River.

Calupaan derived its name from the local plant- lupa which is a local poison tree secreting a very irritating oil from its leaves , much more irritating and itchy than that from leaves of the wild gabi plant. Lupa grows abundantly at the place at the time hence the owed Calupaan or place of the lupa was called through the years of hardworking unity, cooperation and bayanihan spirit of the local folks, they slowly managed to exterminate the irritating plant to extinction .

With the creation of the PACD in the 60’s Calupaan was renamed San Rafael West and reorganized like the other barangays of the ,municipality to pave the way for the impending development in the countryside . the first settlers of the barangay are the cayaban , Dela Cruz , Valencia , Tomines and Trinidad and most of them track back their roots to the Ilocos Province.

The place endowed with rich fertile soil salad . The abundant rivers springs in Sabangan also provide a sparkingly clear and cool water ideal for swimming which captivates the influx of picnickers during the hot summer giving some local folks an idea to put up cottages for fun and profit like the Aquino resort and the Sirena’s Place.

The local inhabitants of brgy. San Rafael West are all Good- fearing and religious people, most of them Roman Catholic , with few from other religious sects .Yet ,in this little diversity all of the them are standing united and working hand –in – hand towards a more progressive san Rafael West . Thus , the present day Calupaan is not far behind in terms of unity ,peace and progress.

Summary:

Barangay          : San Rafael West

Population         : 1,034 ( 1995 census)

No. of Households: 216 ( 1995 census)

Land. Area        : 11o has

Distance from Municipal Hall ; 3 kms

Facilities           :  Day Care center / basketball Court

Road Condition :  Cemented/ Gravelled

Public Utility Vehicle:  Tricycle

Sources of Potable Water :  Deep Well

Source of Electric Power  :  PANELCO III