Dubbed as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, General Santos City is not only laden with bountiful marine resources but also, of culture, traditions and people. And this month of September, the city is celebrating their most anticipated Tuna Festival to the delight of locals, visitors and foreigners who made their way into the city.
A celebration of everything tuna, the festival is a magnificent avenue to give thanks to a year that has been. City officials and private individuals crafted a most magnificent and festive celebration that included events, shows and everything to do with tuna.
At around 3pm last Saturday, 1 September, General Santos city formally opened this year’s Tuna Festival. A number of colourful and magnificently created floats lined the streets to the delight of those who were in attendance. The parade ended at the famous Oval Plaza where it was decorated like a Mardi Gras – which happened to be this year’s theme.
According to General Santos City Mayor, Ronnel C. Rivera, during his speech, expressed his happiness and glee to everyone who made this celebration extra-special. For him, this is not just about a thanksgiving of the bountiful harvest but more so, thanksgiving to everyone who made General Santos city the city that it is today.
Celebrating this year’s 20th, General Santos is known as the leading producer of yellow fin tuna in the country. More so, the city has been recognized as a golden source of tuna all over the world. As such, the city is loaded with anything and everything tuna. Restaurants in the city are serving delectable dishes that highlight the many beautiful flavours of tuna. From grilled to soup to fresh kinilaw, everything is here.
This year’s Tuna Festival, despite the tight security, is one that signifies camaraderie and unity between and amongst the people of GenSan. To General Santos city, cheers!