In the 18th century, the Muslim tribes in Davao invaded the Manobos in Agusan. The Manobos fought against the Muslims. The first known leader of the inhabitants was Eladio Manguyod, a strong and influential "datu" of the Manobo tribe, who led his people to victory after a hard-fought battle that drove the Muslims out of Agusan. It was also during those times when the tribe was converted into Christianity. The inhabitants owed their victories to Datu Manguyod as well as their patron, Saint John.