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Travel Info: General Santos City, Philippines...

General Santos City, or simply GenSan, has gained prominence, not just in Region XII but in the entire country for being on the cutting edge in terms of economic stability, growth and tourism potential. Through the efforts of its citizens, the city has gained a reputation as being business and tourist friendly.
Geography

General Santos is located in South Cotabato. Beside it are the three municipalities of Sarangani and two municipalities of South Cotabato. GenSan is situated off the southeast of Cebu and Manila, and just a little southwest of Davao. The total land area is 180 sq. miles, or 490 sq. km. It has an elevation of 50 ft.(15m) and has a population of a little over half a million.

Natural Resources

The geographical location of the city, like Davao, makes it an ideal place for planting and sowing crops. With 30% of the land ripe for agriculture, General Santos has become very competitive in the production of prime commodities. Among its numerous products are rice, corn asparagus, okra, and an assortment of export quality
fruits and vegetables.

Economic Infrastructure

A sound infrastructure is needed for any city to attract investors, and General Santos excels in this department. Basic necessities, like power and water are provided for by the Napocor (National Power Corporation) and the GSC Water District, respectively.
The transport sector has also been well established. The General Santos International Airport is the most modern in Mindanao. With a runway over 9,000 feet long, it is more than capable of handling the largest passenger airlines.

The Makar Wharf, on the other hand, is regarded as the finest in the region, if not the country. With a 2,400 ft. docking length, and about 63 ft. wide, it has become the primary shipping port, and is always busy with ships transporting goods and cargo.
Through the Pan-Philippine Highway, General Santos is no considered as a gateway city to all parts of Mindanao, and also linking it with the other cities in the country.

These elements have combined to make one of the most economically vibrant cities. All the institutions that one would expect in a first class city that one expects, like banks, universities, government offices, etc. can be found throughout the city.

History

Very little is known of the history of the Cotabato region before the pre-Hispanic era, except that it was mostly populated by Muslims. When the Spanish arrived, they encountered heavy resistance from the Muslims, as was often the case in Mindanao. The situation repeated itself when the Americans came.

After the region was liberated by the Allied Forces in 1945, the entire region began experiencing growth, with several companies setting up businesses This trend continued well into the late 1950s and 60s. and by July 1968, through Republic Act No. 5412 General Santos was declared a city. Today, the city is classified into 26 barangays.

The people are known for being hospitable and friendly. The dominant religions are Christianity and Islam, although the influx of foreigners and peoples from other lands have seen the emergence of other beliefs as well.

Entertainment

General Santos has become a big draw for tourists for several reasons. Those who like to experience the best of modern life can get it with shopping malls, movie houses, restaurants and a wide range of hotels and inns.

Those who want to get a glimpse of the culture and history should look no further than its various festivals, which tell the story of the city and province through colorful parades and dances. There are also several landmarks such as the tunnels, waterfalls and camping grounds.

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