12 Beat, General Santos City (2025)

26/09/2025

Ceres Transport has officially launched its new provincial bus route connecting EDSA Kamuning, Cubao (Quezon City) to General Santos City, and vice versa.

The maiden trip arrived at Bulaong Terminal in GenSan at 7:00 PM on September 26, after nearly three days of travel via the Western Nautical Highway, marking a milestone in long-distance public transport.

Schedule:

- Cubao to GenSan: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:00 PM
- GenSan to Cubao: Fridays & Sundays, 6:00 PM

- Fare: ₱6,250 (inclusive of ferry/boat fare)
- Stops include: Batangas, Caticlan, Iloilo, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Dipolog, Iligan, Cagayan, Bukidnon, Kabacan, Tacurong, and Koronadal.

This new route caters to travelers seeking a road trip adventure across the archipelago, connecting Luzon to Mindanao through a unique inter-island journey.

Ceres Transport is a major provincial bus company in the Philippines operating under the Yanson Group of Bus Companies (YGBC) — the largest bus conglomerate in the country.

Established in 2009 and based in Batangas City, Ceres Transport specializes in long-haul routes that connect Metro Manila to various provinces across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao via the Strong Republic Nautical Highway.

(photo by Merly Sala/Facebook)

26/09/2025

KORONADAL CITY — Students of Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) and local advocates held a peaceful protest Friday evening to denounce rampant corruption in the Philippines.

The demonstration began at 6:00 PM along Alunan Avenue, fronting the South Cotabato Sports Complex. Led by human rights advocate Lexie Acosta, the event drew dozens of participants dressed in black — a symbolic stand against government dishonesty.

Political Science instructor Ivan Ray Amadio emphasized that student participation was voluntary, aimed at expressing frustration through peaceful means. A “Freedom Wall” was set up for attendees to voice their concerns and hopes for reform.

At 6:30 PM, the group held a solemn candle lighting ceremony, mourning the erosion of integrity in public service. The protest comes amid national outrage over alleged corruption in flood control projects involving top officials.

The event dubbed as “Students in Solidarity: An Indignation Rally Against Corruption” was organized by NDMU Political Science Society.

(photo from Bombo Radyo Koronadal)

26/09/2025

KORONADAL CITY — Students, staff and faculty from Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) gathered on September 25 for a “Night of Reflection, Prayer, and Candle Lighting for the Filipino Nation,” condemning widespread corruption in flood control projects allegedly involving top government officials.

The Marist-run university called for moral awakening and youth activism. Caroline Abaigar of OMNIANA emphasized unity and action beyond social media, urging students to be voices of hope and integrity.

The event was part of NDMU’s initiative to promote moral responsibility and active citizenship, stressing the Marist community’s shared call for justice, integrity, and national renewal.

The rally coincides with ongoing Senate investigations into billions lost to ghost and substandard infrastructure projects, with several lawmakers named but denying involvement.

(photo from OMNIANA/Facebook)

26/09/2025

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 | Mayor Pacquiao Welcomes Foreign Ambassadors to General Santos City

Mayor Lorelie Geronimo-Pacquiao warmly welcomed 35 foreign ambassadors and their spouses, along with officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), during the Mindanao Familiarization Tour held on September 26, at CMO Kastifun Hall.

In her speech, Mayor Pacquiao emphasized unity and international cooperation, expressing gratitude for the visit and highlighting the city's potential as a hub of hardworking and peaceful citizens.

In recognition of her dedication and continued support for initiatives that foster international connections, DFA Representative Arvin R. De Leon presented Mayor Pacquiao with a Token of Appreciation.

(Photos by Denn Jib Seblos/CMO)

25/09/2025

ALABEL, Sarangani — DNA analysis has confirmed that ‘Reden’, the 7.5-foot saltwater crocodile rescued in Barangay Kawas last February 26, 2025, belongs to the Tawi-Tawi–Palawan genetic cluster, linking it to populations in Palawan and South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi.

Experts believe Reden’s migration to the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape was driven by rich food sources and ideal coastal habitats, reinforcing the bay’s role as a refuge for migratory wildlife.

The finding highlights the ecological connectivity of crocodile populations across the Philippines and supports conservation efforts aligned with Indo-Pacific dispersal studies.

Reden is currently under the care of a DENR-accredited facility in Davao City. Authorities urge the public to report wildlife sightings and continue supporting Sarangani Bay’s protection as a biodiversity sanctuary.

| source: DENR Soccsksargen

25/09/2025

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — In a bold move to combat climate change and restore forest cover, the Provincial Government of Sarangani hosted the One Million Trees Stakeholders’ Forum on September 24 at Avior Hotel, bringing together key partners for its Reforestation Development Program (RDP-OMTP).

Led by Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao, the forum united officials from the DENR, LGUs, civil society, academe, and private sector to strengthen collaboration and define shared responsibilities in rehabilitating priority watershed areas across the province’s seven municipalities.

Governor Pacquiao emphasized the initiative as a long-term investment in ecological sustainability, while DENR Undersecretary Marilou Erni praised the RDP as a “comprehensive and impressive plan” for water security. DENR 12 Regional Director Atty. Felix Alicer hailed it as the first of its kind in SOCCSKSARGEN.

The event concluded with a symbolic signing of commitment, marking Sarangani’s unified push to become a regional model for reforestation and environmental stewardship.

| source: Sarangani Provincial Information Office

25/09/2025

TACURONG CITY — Tourism leaders and stakeholders from across Region 12 convened on Thursday, September 25, at the Sultan Kudarat Convention Center for the Soccsksargen Tourism Summit, aiming to boost collaboration and position the region as a top travel destination.

Hosted by the Province of Sultan Kudarat, the summit gathered officials from the Department of Tourism (DOT), MSMEs, students, and tour operators to spotlight the region’s rich culture, warm hospitality, and diverse attractions.

"We want to showcase our people, our culture and our different majestic tourist spots. It is now time for Soccsksargen to rise together. Hindi kaya ng isang probinsya lang, kinakailangan all of us working together,” said Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu.

DOT Assistant Regional Director Armin Hautea highlighted the summit’s role in evaluating the industry’s current performance and crafting programs to make Region 12 a destination of choice.

Cotabato Province Vice Governor Ella Taliño-Taray was symbolically handed the key of responsibility as host of the 2026 summit. Now in its third year, the event remains a key feature of RDC Week every September.

| source: PIA Sultan Kudarat

25/09/2025

Filipino pop sensation Sam Concepcion has been revealed as the official voice behind the Kalimudan Festival 2025 soundtrack, adding star power to one of Region 12’s most anticipated cultural celebrations.

The singer gave fans a sneak peek into the music video production through his Instagram Stories, sharing behind-the-scenes moments from the shoot.

Miss Universe Philippines Sultan Kudarat representative Chelsea Fernandez and content creator Thailand Girl (TG) made special appearances in the official music video.

Meanwhile, the official page of Sultan Kudarat Governor Datu Pax Ali S. Mangudadatu released a short clip filmed at the Provincial Capitol grounds, featuring both the young governor and Isulan Mayor Bai Rihan M. Sakaluran, who also appear in the music video.

Excitement is building online as netizens share their own behind-the-scenes footage, fueling anticipation for the festival’s grand showcase. This year’s theme, “The World Meets in Sultan Kudarat,” hints at a global celebration of culture, music, and unity.

Set to coincide with the province’s 52nd Foundation Anniversary this November, Kalimudan Festival 2025 promises a vibrant lineup: pre-events, a grand opening ceremony, the return of Miss Sultan Kudarat, Haraya Music Festival Nights, a bustling flea market, street dancing spectacles, and a festive closing ceremony.

The provincial government is also teasing surprise appearances from special guests, both local and international, making this year’s celebration one for the books.

24/09/2025

ALABEL, Sarangani — Hundreds of residents received free hearing aids and health services during the two-day “So Sarangani May Hear” mission held September 23–24 at the Sarangani Sports Training Center.

Led by the Starkey Hearing Foundation in partnership with the Provincial Government of Sarangani, the initiative drew patients from across the province, General Santos City, and South Cotabato.

Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao and Provincial Tourism Council President Jobelle R. Pacquiao welcomed the Starkey team, thanking them for their commitment to improving lives through hearing care.

The mission provided screenings, fittings, and education on device use, while also raising awareness on hearing health and early detection.

Starkey, a U.S.-based nonprofit, is globally recognized for its work in underserved communities, aiming to restore hearing and empower individuals. Governor Pacquiao expressed hope that the partnership will continue, ensuring inclusive healthcare for all Sarangans.

| source: Sarangani Provincial Information Office

24/09/2025

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 | GenSan Delegates Join Mindanao GovTech Summit 2025

General Santos City delegates are taking part in the Mindanao GovTech Summit, one of the flagship events of Davao Startup Week 2025.

The delegation includes the LGU GenSan, through the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office (CEMCDO), MSU GenSan through ICEBOX Technology Business Incubator, and the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., represented by Lord Dalinas, Vice Chair for ICT.

The summit is the first Mindanao-wide platform bringing together government leaders, innovators, and changemakers to discuss how technology is transforming governance and public service.

Running from September 24 to 27, 2025, Davao Startup Week carries the theme “Grassroots, Global Reach: Scaling Innovation from the South,” reflecting the city’s ambition to position itself as a serious player in the global innovation landscape.

24/09/2025

LGU GenSan kicked off National Tourism Week 2025 on September 23 with an exhibit at Veranza Mall, showcasing the creativity of local schools and businesses.

The event, led by the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development Office (CEMCDO), celebrates tourism’s role in sustainable transformation.

Messages from city officials emphasized tourism’s impact on development, heritage preservation, and environmental protection.

The week-long celebration runs until September 27, aligning with World Tourism Day 2025 under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”

24/09/2025

Tourism stakeholders from Region 12 will gather on September 25 at the Sultan Kudarat Convention Center in Tacurong City for the 2025 SOCCSKSARGEN Tourism Summit.

Organized by the Department of Tourism Region 12, the Regional Development Council, and the provincial government of Sultan Kudarat, the summit aims to strengthen partnerships and tackle tourism-related issues.

Around 300 participants from government, private sectors, and tourism players are expected.

Highlights include a travel and trade mini fair and discussions on sustainable tourism, Gen Z engagement, wellness tourism, safety standards, mental health, cultural events, and funding opportunities from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

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