GenSan Leads Mindanao in Poverty Reduction: A Blueprint for Regional Economic Growth

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The “Tuna Capital of the Philippines” has added another distinction to its name: Mindanao’s top performer in poverty reduction. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), General Santos City posted a poverty incidence of just 8.2 percent in 2023—the lowest among all cities in Mindanao and one of the lowest in the country.

This figure represents a dramatic turnaround from 2021, when the city’s poverty rate stood at 15.5 percent. The decline reflects a sustained economic momentum driven by a robust fisheries sector, strategic infrastructure investments, and an increasingly business-friendly environment under the administration of Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao.

Tuna Capital Fuels a Thriving Economy

At the heart of GenSan’s economic engine remains its world‑famous tuna industry. The city is the largest producer of sashimi‑grade tuna in the Philippines, supporting a vast network of workers and businesses along the entire value chain—from fishing and processing to export. In April 2026, Mayor Pacquiao reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to strengthening the sector, citing its critical role in the city’s continued progress. The General Santos Fish Port Complex, a key logistics hub, has also been earmarked for multi‑billion‑peso upgrades, further modernizing the industry.

A New Wave of Investment

Beyond fisheries, GenSan is rapidly diversifying its economic base. The Board of Investments (BOI) and the city government formalized a partnership in March 2026 to streamline investment facilitation and fast‑track strategic projects. The agreement supports the Green Lanes program, which aims to cut red tape for qualified investors. Already, investments are flowing into hospitality, retail, real estate, manufacturing, and ICT—all supported by modern telecom infrastructure and strong air, land, and sea connectivity.

“This partnership reinforces our shared commitment to improving the way we support investors—from facilitating their entry into the market to assisting them throughout the life cycle of their investments,” said BOI executive director Bobby Fondevilla. Mayor Pacquiao added that the agreement “sends a strong message that we are serious in strengthening investments, expanding business opportunities, and, most importantly, creating more jobs for the Generals”.

Infrastructure Boom Reshapes the City

A wave of major infrastructure projects is further accelerating GenSan’s transformation.

Palengke Heneral (P2.3‑B): The city’s more than 50‑year‑old Central Public Market is being redeveloped into a modern, three‑story integrated commercial complex under a public‑private partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation. The facility will be the city’s first solar‑powered public market, featuring improved sanitation, safety systems, and a new mall with an al fresco area overlooking Sarangani Bay.
New City Hall and Grandstand: Both flagship projects are nearing completion, promising more efficient public service delivery and a modern venue for civic events.
Cold Storage Expansion: The national government is pouring funds into upgrading the General Santos Fish Port Complex, enhancing the city’s role as a fisheries logistics hub.

A Model for Mindanao

GenSan’s remarkable poverty reduction—from 15.5 percent in 2021 to 8.2 percent in 2023—places it well ahead of the national average of 15.5 percent. This achievement underscores the power of a diversified local economy, proactive governance, and strategic public‑private partnerships. For other cities in Mindanao seeking to replicate its success, GenSan offers a compelling blueprint: invest in core industries, modernize public infrastructure, create a business‑friendly environment, and ensure that growth reaches the grassroots.

As Mayor Pacquiao put it, “Hangad natin na maiangat ang kabuhayan at pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan, kaya’t sinisikap natin na mas mapabuti pa ang pamamahala sa ating lungsod ng sa gayun ay magkaroon ng malaking oportunidad ang lahat ng mga pamilyang Heneral”.