Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
General Santos Government Sites
General Santos City: All about Tuna
The Tuna Capital of the Philippines had been cited as the ‘Most Competitive City’ because of its economic competency and stability. Agro-industry has been the strong commercial enterprise that enhanced the city of General Santos’ financial system. This feat would never be realized without a clear cut vision and mission declaration guiding them to live with.
Mission and Vission of General Santos City
The city’s mission: ‘To provide opportunities to all sectors of society to be productive and responsible stakeholders, through execution of sound and beneficial programs, projects and initiatives anchored on the principles of justice and equity.’ The main commerce of the place is agro-industrial and for this reason, the local government provided leverage on the promotion of the local products of the city. This has proved to be very effective and it really encouraged local and small entrepreneurs to improve on their crafts.
The local government as well provides alluring incentive that keeps the enthusiasm to keep improving. The city’s vision: ‘By 2015, General Santos City, the Tuna Capital of the Philippines and the wellspring of winners will be a globally competitive and livable city whose healthy, friendly, well-educated and responsible citizens actively participate in effective governance.’ With a clear objective or goal in mind, being globally competitive would be a reality in the near future. Eco-Tourism is also a boost in the city’s economic stability and progress. The Kalaja Eco-Tourism Destination has been a favorite spot for visitors and tourists alike.
The Progress of Tuna Fishing Industry in General Santos City
The tuna fishing business had never been this thriving and prosperous since its conception from the past years to the present. The new technology, strategic location and the needed facilities for fishing had been the factor why General Santos City’s tuna industry is flourishing and for this the city is now is ‘Boom Town City of the South’. In order to make this industry progressive they need to attract local and international investors. The city’s official website (http://www.gensantos.gov.ph/) gives an overview for tourists, visitors or business financiers of what General Santos City is all about. It is loaded with a lot of information and related facts suitable for possible tourists and commercial entrepreneurs. After browsing through the official website, one can never get enough of just a glimpse of the place. An individual needs to be at General Santos City to enjoy its wonders.
General Santos Education
As one of the highly populous areas in the Philippines, General Santos City features a lineup of impressive universities and colleges. These educational facilities are key components of an excellent General Santos education system. Here, students can easily be part of extensive academic programs and enroll in highly interesting courses. From these schools, they can expect to find decent modern facilities, outstanding curricula and other key elements that are crucial for learning.
Holy Trinity College
Located along Fiscal Daproza Avenue, Holy Trinity College was considered a developing educational institution under the Commission on Higher Education Institutional Quality Assurance Monitoring and Evaluation. It has good student personnel services, which aim to provide financial assistance, counseling services and career information. In addition, the school also has some very good facilities to offer including an extensive research center, modern sports and recreational facilities as well as an information technology center. In terms of academics, it showcases numerous impressive courses under its major colleges such as the College of Criminal Justice Administration, College of Teacher Education and College of Information Technology. It also offers technical education courses like Computer Hardware Servicing NC II, Building Wiring Installation NC II and Automotive Servicing NC II.
Mindanao Polytechnic College
With all its beautiful facilities and outstanding academic programs, Mindanao Polytechnic College is easily one of the top schools in the area. Situated at Makar-Polomolok Junction, one of its major aims as an educational institution is to produce professionals who are highly competent in their chosen fields. Likewise, the school aims to imbibe in the character of students important values such as transparency, honesty and integrity. It features different kinds of degree programs, which are divided into various departments including the Department of Information Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Department of Customs Administration.
Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
Established in 1953, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University is found along Marist Avenue, which is part of the extensive General Santos education system. Under the College of Business, it offers courses like Hotel and Restaurant Management, Tourism Management and Financial Management. Furthermore, it also has the College of Engineering and Technology, where students can enroll in courses such as Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
Mindanao State University-General Santos City
As a state-owned educational establishment, many people find it really good to enroll at Mindanao State University-General Santos City. This school offers good quality education at super low tuition fee rates. Moreover, it is provides different kinds of scholarships for exceptional students, especially those who are financially challenged. Under its College of Agriculture, students can enroll in undergraduate courses including BSA Horticulture, BSA Animal Science and BS Agricultural Education. It also has other colleges such as the College of Public Affairs, the College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, as well as the College of Health Sciences.
General Santos Beach Guide
There are a lot of activities that you can do when in this beautiful city, but definitely one of the most exciting would be to go visit the beaches in and around the area. This General Santos beach guide can give you an idea of where to go.
One of the destinations that would definitely be worth checking out is Gumasa Beach, which is only a couple of hours away. This General Santos beach guide can inform you that there are several valid reasons why it is so popular among tourists. The waters are very clear and unspoiled, with none of the problems that afflict other beaches that are frequented by too many people. Moreover, the sands around the beach are exceedingly fine, perfect for daily strolls.
Another site that should be in any General Santos beach guide is London Beach off Siguel. Siguel is only a few minutes away by motor vehicle from General Santos, and once you get there, you will be able to savor the pure air and water around the area. There are also resorts nearby so finding a place to stay in will not be a problem.
Nearby is Tropicana Beach. Compared with other beaches, it is quiet and serene, which would be welcomed by tourists and travelers who just want to spend some quiet time by the ocean shore. The cool breeze that emanates from the sea can be felt night and day, so you can visit it at any time and still savor the breeze.
Tuka Beach is also a place worthy of inclusion in this General Santos beach guide. It is situated off Kiamba in Sarangani, which is not that far off from General Santos. The beach is divided into Tuka Beach 1, 2, 3 and 4. Each one is filled with interesting sights, not the least of which are the hills and mountains covering the surrounding landscape.
All of the beaches in Tuka have their own distinct features, and there are several things that you can enjoy. You can go on a boating trip, or as most people now do, go to the nearby theme park, for which the entire place is named. This General Santos beach guide can point out that you will see a wide array of exotic animals in the area, several of which are located only in the local seas.
This General Santos beach guide only gives you an overview of the features of these sites. Once there, you will find other hidden treasures and thrills that will make your stay even more exciting.
General Santos Travel Guide
Known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, General Santos City plays home to numerous tourist destinations that attract a great number of travelers in the country. To accommodate travelers who want to take a look at the attractive sites in the province, General Santos City, Philippines, features hotels, lodges and inns, where people can have a comfortable and relaxing stay. In addition, the city also offers restaurants that serve sumptuous and mouth-watering dishes to everyone. Hence, to avoid worry-free travels to the place, it is best that people refer to General Santos travel guides for the best places to see in the city.
Tourist Attractions
One of the special sections of General Santos travel guides is the tourist destination section. In this section, people can have ideas about the famous and beautiful tourist spots in General Santos City, Philippines. For travelers who have interest in visiting natural attractions in the place, they can always take a look at Kalaja Karst Area, which features beautiful waterfalls and an attractive cave. Other attractions to see in General Santos City, Philippines, are Lake Sebu and Lake Maughan, which are known for their serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Restaurants
For the comfort of all the travelers in General Santos City, Philippines, most General Santos travel guides provide a section on restaurants or dining places in the area. Individuals who like to visit restaurants that serve authentic Filipino dishes can always go to Sud-an, Kanto, and Jam’s Restaurant. However, for people who prefer to dine in some fast foods in the city, they can refer to General Santos travel guides to know the exact locations of Jollibee, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and McDonald’s. Additionally, for those who prefer to eat light meals like pastries, pastas, and pizzas, the city also features Pizza Hut and Red Ribbon.
Hotels
Regarding accommodations, travelers have nothing to worry for General Santos travel guides provide information on the amenities, as well as accommodation rates of hotels, lodges, and inns at General Santos City, Philippines. For individuals who like to have a luxurious and comfortable stay in the place, they can always make advance reservations in three-star and four-star hotels like Family Country Hotel, Phela Grande Hotel, and Matutum Hotel. Meanwhile, for people who prefer to stay in hospitality service providers that offer affordable rates, they can always take a look at lodges in General Santos City, Philippines, like Maharlika Lodge, Shanghai Lodge, and Clara’s Lodge. Hence, with the use of General Santos travel guides, people can surely have a remarkable and enjoyable stay in the wonderful city of General Santos, Philippines.
General Santos Transportation
Overview
Fondly known to its inhabitants as Gensan, this city in Mindanao is frequented by tourists because of the many natural wonders that can be seen here. The strength of Gensan lies in its thriving agricultural land and although this is the primary source of livelihood here, General Santos is a progressive city. In fact, when in Gensan, one will be amazed at how accessible General Santos transportation is.
Getting to General Santos City
If one is planning a trip to General Santos, it’s a good idea to consider the different means of General Santos transportation that would get one to this thriving city. The quickest way is of course by plane and a direct flight originating from the nation’s capital lasts for about an hour and forty five minutes. There are many airlines that offer promotional packages when it comes to airfares going to General Santos and during off peak season, one might just chance upon promotional offers that will bring ticket rates down to less that Php2000. If however one is not able to book a direct flight, there is another mode of General Santos transportation that can get one there quickly and that is to fly from Manila to Cebu. Once in Cebu, it’s much easier to book a flight that’s headed straight for General Santos City.
Believe it or not, another mode of General Santos transportation is to take the bus although this is a 3 day journey. This passes several provinces on the way to General Santos and the scenery varies from scenic to endless stretches of national road. This costs about Php2000 per person.
If one is considering of getting to this part of Mindanao via sea, a multitude of General Santos transportation options are available. One can take a ferry directly to General Santos or make stopovers in Iloilo for a total travel time of three days. Depending on the type of accommodation options that one chooses, fare can range from Php2000 to Php6000.
Getting Around General Santos City
Once in Gensan, one will notice that almost all types of public utility vehicles that can be seen in Manila can be found here. Among the General Santos transportation options to help one get around the city are jeepneys, tricycles, taxis and buses. The most affordable would of course be the jeepney with fare less than Php10 per head but these make several stops and drive on designated routes. For a more comfortable trip, there are air conditioned taxis and the initial flag down rate is Php30.
General Santos Travel Agents
General Santos City: Tuna Capital of the Philippines
Mindanao is truly a blessed island in terms of Mother Nature’s wonderful gifts. At the southern part of Mindanao, lies the great and wonderful City of General Santos. Expanding from the basin of the Bay of Sarangani, General Santos City is located-a stronghold and bastion of current amenities which is bestowed with the wonder of nature and various cultures flourish. General City is the entryway or gateway in exploring the endless wonders of the SOCCSKSARGEN Growth Region (it stands for SOuth Cotabato, Cotabato, Suktan Kudarat, SARangani and GENeral Santos City).
All about Tuna
The City of Tuna indulges its visitors and tourists with literally tons and tons of seafood delights especially tuna. This luxury had established several or various food business ventures. These food businesses offer varieties of Western, Asian, Filipino and Mindanaoan cooking specialties. What makes the food very satisfying and mouthwatering is the ‘fresh-from-the-catch’ way or style of cooking, literally, enjoying the food’s flavor in its best.
Some of the ‘must-eats’ tuna menus are Sugba (marinated with a special sauce then charcoal-boiled, comes best with soy sauce with calamansi juice as a dip), the Tula a ginger based soup with lemon grass tomatoes and vegetables in it and the Kinilaw- a no cook dish (actually being cooked by the vinegar itself) prepared like a salad with shallots, pepper, onions, garlic and cucumber.
Getting to Taste General Santos City’s Finest Dishes
The influx and arrival of people from all parts of the world going to General Santos City have diverse intensions in mind. The flourishing tuna industry had attracted several corporations to harness this natural resource. The beautiful surroundings of General Santos City had attracted a lot of tourists and visitors a like to have some nature tripping or just to chill out with the wonders of nature. To ensure accommodations and travel itineraries, local government continuously promoted travel agencies in the place.
Angel Grace Travel and Tours located at G/F Constar Lodge, Pioneer Avenue, General Santos City provides travel packages and assistance for tourists and visitors alike. Another recognized travel agency is the Romano Travel and Tours situated at National Highway, Dadiangas North General Santos City. These are some of the travel agencies that arrange travel deals for General Santos City. As a travelers’ tip, always check for other alternatives regarding travel agencies through the internet. Having a hassle and worry free trip is certainly, a few clicks away.
General Santos Shopping
Rising from the ashes of the old mall that was destroyed by fire about 4 years ago, you can now experience General Santos shopping at the newly-constructed and airconditoned KCC Mall. The old building used to be located at Osmena Street at the now Koronadal City as a fabric store. Eventually it developed into a shopping mall located at General Santos Drive.
Afterwards, the KCC Warehouse Club was established in General Santos City. The new building was destroyed by fire paving the way for the establishment of KCC Mall of General Santos, the biggest mall in Cotabato.
KCC provides a wide array of the best products General Santos shopping has to offer. You can get local and imported clothing at wholesale price. Its supermarket located at Level 1 has 82 checkout counters. There is a Food Court as well as popular American restaurants such as KFC, Dunkin Donuts, Pizza Hut, to name just a few.
Planning to book tickets for your trip to Manila or other places? KCC is home to a couple of travel agencies. Level 3 is the haven of gamers as well as six mini-cinemas complete with Digital Sound. Aside from that, there is a Skin Center, Dental Clinic, Spa, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop as well as regional offices of the two leading telecommunication companies Globe & Smart.
KCC also has an Internet cafe with over 30 computers providing the lowest rates at PHP20 an hour. Likewise, there are cellphone shops, a hardware, and a computer shop. Operations starts at 9 am and ends at midnight after the last full show in the cinemas. There is free parking space at Level 3 and supermarket level.
The store also sells clothes made by local manufacturers at affordable prices. Looking for souvenir shirts? They are available at US$3 per piece. There are discounted models of cellphones, Filipino crafts, religious items, among others. KCC Mall is located at J. Catolico Sr, Avenue, General Santos City.
General Santos shopping will become even more worthwhile as the SM Group of Companies is expected to open SM City General Santos come 2011, simultaneous with that of SM City North Davao. It will be first SM mall in General Santos City and the third in the whole Mindanao peninsula after SM City Davao and Cagayan de Oro. It will house common fixtures in any SM establishment such as SM Appliance Center, Movietime, Department Store as well as stores like National Bookstore and Toy Kingdom.
General Santos Hotels and Resorts
Overview
If convenience and pampering is what is after in a General Santos hotel, the good news is that this ‘Boom Town City’ has many options when it comes to lodging and accommodation. Aside from the interesting attractions in General Santos City, it also has several good hotels that can offer one a totally relaxing holiday.
Dolores Tropicana Resort
The Dolores Hotels and Resorts have long since established a name for its properties in terms of world class service and excellent facilities. For those who want a break from the everyday noise and stress in the big cities, Dolores Tropicana Resort is a good place to go to because of its beautiful well kept gardens and it is away from everyday hassles but with modern amenities within the guest’s reach. Dolores Tropicana Resort also has several conference rooms so if one is planning where the next corporate team building shld be, this General Santos hotel can accommodate up to 200 people comfortably.
The rooms at the Dolores Tropicana Resort are spacious, each one with a queen sized bed except for the Taub Room which has a king sized one. Every room at this General Santos hotel has its own private bathroom with hot and cold shower, cable television and an IDD phone as well as a mini-bar. Room rates at Dolores Tropicana Resort start at Php 1,200 per room per night and this includes complimentary breakfast. Considered the premier resort in General Santos, this 34 roomed General Santos hotel looks out to the beach with palm trees in the background. The Dolores Tropicana Resort also offers spa and massage so one can expect total pampering when at this General Santos hotel.
Phela Grande Hotel
Since we’re talking about grandeur and luxury, another good choice for a General Santos hotel is the Phela Grande Hotel which is on Magsaysay Street. This General Santos hotel has a restaurant that specializes in Filipino and International cuisine and aside from the great food, the waiters and waitresses are very accommodating. Phela Grande Hotel also has its own souvenir shop so just before one boards the plane, there’s no need to look for a store to buy giveaways for friends and families back home. All the rooms at the Phela Grande Hotel are cozy, elegantly furnished, fully air conditioned and there are 9 different types depending on how many people are staying for the night. Each room at Phela Grande Hotel has complete amenities and for those who rented a car during their stay, this General Santos hotel has a big parking lot with 24 hour security. Phela Grande Hotel’s rates start at Php 1,000 per night.
General Santos Festivals and Events
Overview
Fondly known as Gensan and the crown jewel of southern Philippines, General Santos has fascinating attractions that draw visitors to it all year round. Originally just a vast farm land, General Santos has progressed to a highly urbanized city but at the same time has managed to preserve age old traditions. General Santos festivals are one of the many things that people enjoy and the experience during these events is truly something else.
Tuna Festival
General Santos is known for having one of the best Tuna in the world and hence it comes as no surprise that this city would celebrate the Tuna Festival. Tuna caught in General Santos is fresh out of the sea and it is one of the sources of income for this progressive city. The Tuna Festival is a culinary event that showcases the many different dishes that can be made from Tuna. This General Santos festival was an instant hit when it was first celebrated and today the entire city celebrates this. During the Tuna Festival, there are several contests and the biggest one is the cooking competition. This General Santos festival draws the best chefs from all over the country hoping to win that prestigious award. The other highlights of the Tuna Festival are the parades, street dances and trade exhibits all centered on the sashimi-grade fish. The best part though about the Tuna Festival is the gastronomical feast where one can try the many different dishes prepared by the different restaurants that take part in this event.
Kalilangan Festival
The Kalilangan Festival is the second biggest General Santos festival that has been celebrated for almost two decades. The Kalilangan Festival commemorates the foundation of this bustling city and it is an event organized by the local government in collaboration with civil society groups. This General Santos festival is more than just about merry making as it affords every visitor the opportunity to learn about this city’s rich culture and heritage. During the Kalilangan Festival, there are several presentations prepared by the residents from different towns that showcase the history of General Santos from the time the first settlers arrived. The Kalilangan Festival also has several contests for the local community which includes dancing and singing competitions. Some of the best talents are discovered right here at this General Santos festival. After a day filled with exuberance, a magnificent fireworks display light the night sky signaling the end of the Kalilangan Festival.
General Santos Destination Guides
Overview
Found in the southern part of the Philippines General Santos is one of the most frequented tourist destination in Mindanao. What draws people visitors to General Santos is the inherent need in every individual to be in touch with nature once in a while and appreciate its beauty. Indeed, many General Santos destinations are unspoiled and for many years have been maintained that way.
Lake Sebu
Lake Sebu is where the indigenous group T’boli tribe first settled and one can just imagine that this place was found suitable to meet the needs of the community. Lake Sebu is impressive because of how serene it looks and makes one feel. In fact, many visitors go to this General Santos destination once and keep coming back. The water of Lake Sebu makes one feel that no matter what one is going through, everything can be held together. The water is also very clear at this General Santos destination, a sign that the T’boli group has made every effort to make sure that it stays in exactly the same way as when they first settled here. The local tribe also believes that Lake Sebu is a place of miracles because even during the hottest and driest months, this never goes dry. Another good reason to visit Lake Sebu is the chance to interact with the T’boli tribe.
Kalaja Karst Area
Ranked high on the most visited General Santos destinations is the Kalaja Karst Area found in Barangay Conel. The General Santos destination is a national reserve that is good for anyone who knows how to appreciate nature. One does not have to be a nature lover to be able to enjoy the Kalaja Karst Area because once here, one will realize that nature is something that’s truly wonderful and should be preserved. Aside from picnics and camping, a tour guide awaits at the Kalaja Karst Area to bring one to the Kalaja Cave and the different waterfalls in the area. This General Santos destination is a one stop for those who want to go on a picnic, swim, go trekking or camping. Because of the many options offered by the Kalaja Karst Area, one will definitely not get bored and the rugged environment is something that is very laid back. Even children can enjoy this tourist destination and it’s a good idea to bring them to Kalaja Karst Area so that they learn to appreciate nature at an early age and feel the need to preserve and protect it as they get older.
