General Santos City

General Santos City, which the locals customarily call Gensan, is a city in the southern Philippines. It is located in the island of Mindanao and is within the South Cotabato province. Northwest of Gensan is Cebu City and to its northeast is Davao, two popular destinations in the southern Philippines.

Gensan's agriculture sector and fishing industry are quite strong. The strong agricultural sector growth can be attributed to the typhoon-free weather the city enjoys. The city also enjoys good rainfall, much to the advantage of local farmers. Major produce here include pineapples, rice, asparagus, corn, coconuts, exotic fruits, vegetables, and fruits.

The Gensan Tuna Festival

Among the many festivals the city celebrates every year, the Tuna Festival is probably its biggest and most popular one every year. August is a fun and colorful month for the people of General Santos City due to the Tuna Festival celebrations. Highlights of the festivities include culinary competitions, parades, street parties, ceremonial awards, pageants, and float competitions.

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Where To Go:

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. Looking over the lake one will be impressed by its clearness and purity, but also the overall serenity of the area, with the pool of water seeming to hold everything together. If you get the feeling that there is something mystical about it, you are not alone, for the local tribes in General Santos have always held the belief that it is miraculous, a body of water that never goes dry, and a source of nourishment provided by the Creator.

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Lake Maughan

There are five large rivers in T’boli, and the source of all is Lake Maughan. The lake and the surrounding land has been declared a sanctuary and a natural preserve. The vast area (50,000 hectares) is home to some of the most exotic plants and animals in the Philippines. Some of them in fact, can only be seen in South Cotabato and General Santos.

The T’boli Settlement

Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, the area comprising General Santos City and South Cotabato had already been settled in by various tribes. Now, by going to the west side of Lake Sebu, one can glimpse of its glorious past through the T’boli tribe. The T’boli tribe is one of several indigenous tribes in the area the others include the Manobo Blit and the famous Tasadays). There you can see these natives, clad in their colorful attires and performing their daily activities. Among these are weaving and crafting complex and stunning beads, baskets, and other local craft. Some of the men can also be seen making various ornaments.

Mount Matutum

Rising over 7,600 ft (2,000 meters), Mount Matutum is one of the highest mountains in all of Mindanao.

The mountain is much sought after by climbers, as the reward for ascending to the top is a spectacular view of the skies and a vast mountain range. Its complex landscape will present a challenge to anyone.

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. As one of the most expansive and highest grounds in the city, Nopol Hills gives you a good look at Sarangani Bay, and also some of the other towns and municipalities in the vicinity. For several people, the most enjoyable thing that can be done is to just watch the sun go down.

How To Go There:

One of the most convenient ways to get there is to travel by plane. The General Santos International Airport serves all flights coming in and out of the city. It is the Philippines’ second largest airport and has daily flights to and from Cebu and Manila.

Another option to get to General Santos City is travel by boat. The city’s Makar Wharf is one of the busiest in the Philippines and is also considered by many as one of the best wharfs in the country. 

Source: www.generalsantosboard.com

Teaser photo source: en.wikipilipinas.org