General Santos City, South Cotabato, Philippines

General Santos City, South Cotabato is within Region XII – (Soccsksargen), in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of General Santos City

• As of the 2020 Census, General Santos City had a population of 697,315.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 594,446, reflecting a growth rate of over 17% in five years.
• General Santos is historically home to the Blaan people, an indigenous group known for their intricate weaving, oral traditions, and forest-based livelihoods. The Blaan were the original settlers of the area before waves of Christian migrants arrived in the 20th century.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Hiligaynon, Ilocano, and Tagalog are also widely used due to the city’s diverse migrant population. Indigenous languages such as Blaan are still spoken in upland barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of General Santos City

• General Santos City is located in the southern part of Mindanao, within Region XII (Soccsksargen). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.1139°N latitude and 125.1717°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 492.86 square kilometers, comprising 26 barangays. It is a coastal city facing Sarangani Bay, with terrain that includes flatlands, rolling hills, and river systems. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with high humidity and rainfall distributed throughout the year.
• General Santos is a highly urbanized city and is administratively independent from South Cotabato, though it is geographically located within the province. The City Hall is located in Barangay Dadiangas West, which also houses key government offices.
• Most people reach General Santos via air and sea. The General Santos International Airport serves domestic flights and limited international routes. The Port of General Santos is a major seaport for cargo and passenger vessels. Bus terminals connect the city to Davao, Koronadal, and other parts of Mindanao.

Tourist Attractions of General Santos City

• General Santos City Fish Port Complex: A bustling port known for its tuna trade, where visitors can witness the unloading of sashimi-grade tuna.
• Plaza Heneral Santos: A central public square named after General Paulino Santos, ideal for leisure walks and historical appreciation.
• Queen Tuna Park: A coastal park offering views of Sarangani Bay and a relaxing atmosphere for families and tourists.
• Sanchez Peak: A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
• Kalilangan Festival: Celebrated every February, this festival showcases the city’s multicultural heritage through street dancing, rituals, and trade fairs. “Kalilangan” means “celebration” in the Maguindanaon language.

Economy of General Santos City

• The city’s economy is anchored in:
  • Fishing: General Santos is the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” with a thriving export industry and modern fish port facilities.
  • Agriculture: Major crops include corn, coconut, pineapple, banana, and rice. The city also produces exotic fruits and livestock.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process tuna, meat, and agricultural products for domestic and international markets.
  • Trade and commerce: The city serves as a regional hub for retail, finance, and logistics.
• In 2023, General Santos City posted a GDP of ₱132.17 billion, up from ₱129.03 billion in 2022. It ranks among the top urban economies in Mindanao, with strong growth in accommodation, transportation, and construction sectors.

Educational Institutions of General Santos City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Mindanao State University – General Santos Campus: Offers programs in engineering, fisheries, business, and education.
  • Notre Dame of Dadiangas University: A private Catholic institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, health sciences, and technology.
  • Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges: Offers programs in criminology, education, and hospitality management.
  • Holy Trinity College of General Santos City: Offers programs in business, IT, and teacher education.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of General Santos City

• General Santos City was originally known as Buayan. It was organized under the National Land Settlement Administration (NLSA) during the Commonwealth era. On February 27, 1939, General Paulino Santos led the relocation of 62 Christian settlers from Luzon to the shores of Sarangani Bay aboard the steamship “Basilan.”
• The area was renamed General Santos in honor of the pioneering general who led the development of the Koronadal Valley. The influx of settlers led to the displacement of the native Blaan people, who retreated to the uplands as their ancestral lands were cultivated for agriculture.
• General Santos became a municipality on August 18, 1947, and was converted into a city on July 8, 1968 through Republic Act No. 5412. It was declared a highly urbanized city on September 5, 1988, making it administratively independent from South Cotabato.
• Today, General Santos is a dynamic metropolis known for its tuna industry, cultural diversity, and strategic role in Mindanao’s economic development. It continues to grow through infrastructure, education, and regional cooperation.

Elected Officials of General Santos City

• As of the 2025 elections, General Santos City is led by:
  • Mayor: Lorelie Pacquiao (PCM)
  • Vice Mayor: Atty. Ed Yumang (RCRI)
  • Representative – Lone District: Shirlyn Bañas (PDPLBN)
  • City Councilors: Jonathan Blando, Cesar Bañas Jr., Bing Dinopol, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: General Santos City Election Results.

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