General Santos City - Philippines

The City of General Santos (abbreviated G.S.C. or GenSan.; Cebuano: Dakbayan sa General Santos; Tagalog: Lungsod ng Heneral Santos) is the southernmost port city of the Philippines. It is one of the most populous urban centres in the country with a population of 679,588 as per data of 2010 LGPMS census GenSan is bounded by municipalities of Sarangani Province namely Alabel in the East of the city, and Maasim in the South. The city is likewise bounded by South Cotabato municipality of Polomolok and Sarangani Province municipality of Malungon in the North, and the municipality of T'boli in the West of the city. General Santos City is a component of province South Cotabato

Locals in the city boast that fishes and seafoods do not come fresher than what is found in their locality. The fishing industry in GenSan yields a total daily capacity of 750 metric tons of fish catch alone and employs about 7,800 workers. Which is why, General Santos City is home to seven (7) tuna processing plants in the country. A world class Fishport Complex in Barangay Tambler has a 750-metre quay and a 300-metre wharf for 2,000 GT reefer carriers. The fishport is equipped with modern facilities that comply with international standards on fish catch handling.

The General Santos International Airport is the largest airport in Mindanao. It has a 3,227-metre concrete runway capable of handling wide-bodied jets like Airbus A340 and Boeing 747-400. Flights to and from Manila and Cebu cities are currently being operated in the airport, by Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air, servicing an ever increasing demand in the volume of both passenger and cargo traffic to and from the city and SOCCSKSARGEN region.

      General Santos City celebrates the "Kalilangan" every month of February. "Kalilangan" means festival, festivity or jubilation. It is a social gathering marked by exchanging of amenities among traditional leaders, elders, allies and subordinates in varying tones. In a broader perspective, "Kalilangan" projects a positive and dynamic meaning for it engulfs the artistic, humane and altruistic aspects of social interaction that takes place in any occasion or celebration. "Kalilangan" is a noble tradition. It is a complete work of art nourished and nurtured by rich cultural heritage that has withstand the test of time from generation to generation. 
      It is also a pageantry of unique and colorful ethnic rites, rituals and traditions like marriage celebrations, religious ceremonies, anniversaries, funerals, enthronement of royal dignitaries, thanksgiving and other forms of social, political and economic activities.

      It is not just an economic activity, but a continuous season of merriment, gaiety and merrymaking accentuated by sharing of gifts, traditional sports competition, dancing, singing and instrumental rendition and other forms of exhibition games, entertainment and amusement. General Santos City is known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. Thanksgiving and festivities are being celebrated annually through its "Tuna Festival". Focusing on its main industry. Tuna Float is an event to taste sumptuous tuna treats during the Tuna Culinary Contest.

General Santos Sightseeing - Philippines

       General Santos is widely recognized as a first class, highly advanced city, among the finest in Mindanao and the Philippines. However, aside from being conducive to business ventures, the city is also recognized for being a major tourist hotspot.  The Kalaja Karst Area About 9 miles (15 km.) off the northeast of Barangay Conel, the Kalaja Karst is a sprawling natural reserve that features something for every nature lover and camper. Lake Sebu There is a reason why the T’boli tribe in General Santos settled in the spot where they have, and it is due to Lake Sebu itself.  Lake Maughan There are five large rivers in T’boli, and the source of all is Lake Maughan.  The Kalsangi Golf Course The Kalsangi Golf Course is not just for game lovers; it is also the site for DOLE Philippines.  Mount Matutum Rising over 7,600 ft (2,000 meters), Mount Matutum is one of the highest mountains in all of Mindanao.  Nopol Hills If you enjoy hiking, Nopol Hills in General Santos is the best place to go to. Only half an hour away from Kalaja Karsts, it is a great way to start or end your day.  Kabog Marine Reserve in General Santos City The Kabog Marine Reserve is one of those dive sites in General Santos City that is currently undergoing rehabilitation. It is situated along the eastern portion of the Sarangani Bay.

November 1, 2011- Posted in Philippines - City of General/Champion