26th Tuna Festival in General Santos City Kicks Off with Star-Studded Events and Industry Celebrations

General Santos City, September 2024 – The 26th Tuna Festival has officially begun, bringing with it a vibrant celebration of General Santos City’s thriving tuna industry and rich cultural heritage. This year’s festival is set to honor the city’s dedicated tuna and fisheries sector, whose hard work has solidified General Santos as a global hub for top-quality tuna.

Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao expressed her excitement for the festival, stating, “The Tuna Festival is more than just a tradition—it’s a celebration of our identity as a city. Our tuna industry is the backbone of our economy, and this festival is our way of showing appreciation for the men and women who make it all possible. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating what makes General Santos truly special.”

One of the highlights of the festival is the 24th National Tuna Congress, which will be held from September 3-5. The congress, themed *”Securing the Future of Philippine Tuna Industry: A Competitiveness Agenda,”* will gather industry leaders to discuss the future of the tuna sector, focusing on sustainability and enhancing global competitiveness.

Festival Director John Joey Concepcion shared his enthusiasm for the event lineup, saying, “This year’s Tuna Festival is packed with activities that cater to everyone. We’ve brought in top entertainers like Sarah Geronimo, Kapamilya and Kapuso Stars, Yeng Constantino, and Ben & Ben to ensure that the festivities are not only culturally rich but also immensely enjoyable. Our slogan, ‘Lasa, Galing, Piyesta!’ perfectly captures the essence of this celebration—a festival that’s a feast for the senses.”

The festival offers a wide array of activities, from spectacular cultural shows to culinary showcases featuring General Santos City’s finest tuna dishes. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to explore the bustling street markets and vibrant shopping scenes at the city’s malls, which are all part of the festival’s lively atmosphere.

As General Santos City gears up for the week’s festivities, the community’s excitement is palpable. The city’s leaders are hopeful that this year’s Tuna Festival will be the most memorable yet, further cementing the city’s reputation as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines.”