Bariles has always been fascinated by the mausoleums inside the sprawling 19-hectare Forest Lake San Carlos Memorial Park ever since he and his family started visiting the place to pay respects for their dead.  He had an inkling on how expensive these edifices must have cost and was curious about the identities of the rich and famous buried inside these small burial houses of different designs.

While he and his family of mortals along with thousands of  other cemetery visitors would just spread themselves out on the grass on top of their dearly departed’s burial lots during All Saints and All Souls Day, Bariles would notice the small parties undergoing inside these mausoleums.  Some would even have private masses presided inside their edifices.  Eventually, it was his mother, Maria, a public school principal who would whisper to him who these people were.

And so now, in the spirit of the season of the departed souls, GenSan News Online Mag is featuring these mausoleums which have fascinated Bariles as a kid, to show you the state of Mausoleum Architecture in GenSan and make you realize the extent of how the rich and famous of General Santos City care for their dead.

Thanks to both Bariles and Marz for these pictures.  Identities of the owners of each mausoleum, to follow soon…(misplaced my list..hehehe)

"The FALGUI FAMILY Mausoleum"

"The Yabon Family Mausoleum"

"The Barreras Family Mausoleum"

"The Maduramente Family Mausoleum"

"The Congson Family Mausoleum"

"Mausoleum #6 belongs to the BULAONG FAMILY."

"The Du-Enojado Family Mausoleum"

"The Catolico Family Mausoleum"

"The Espanola Family Mausoleum"

"The Laiz Family Mausoleum"

"The Mirabueno Family Mausoleum"

"The Panlaque Family Museum"

"The Sabando Family Mausoleum"

"The Pontino-De Jesus Family Mausoleum"

"The Pontino Family Mausoleum"

"The Lopez Family Mausoleum"

"The CM Seranillo Family Mausoleum"

"The Gonzales Family Mausoleum"

More pictures coming up in Part II of this feature.

Thanks to his blogger friend from Cotabato City Ark Hilario, Bariles was finally able to score a video of the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Special Episode 4 (Tattoos) which was aired last weekend in the US of A.

"The poster of FIREPOWER - Pacquiao vs. Cotto courtesy of Behance Network"

The four-part TV documentary billed as “TATOOS”, aims to drumbeat the upcoming fight of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto on November 14, 2009 in Las Vegas, christened as “FIREPOWER“.  As with the other HBO 24/7 docus on the past fights of Pacquiao, the camera follows both boxers in a span of four weeks leading to the big day.

Here then is the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Special Episode 4, Part 1 – “TATTOOS”:

The Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Special Episode 4, Part 2 of “Tattoos” is below…

Part 3 of the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7….

Right on the heels of the smash hit concert of the Air Supply in General Santos City, comes a couple of events meant to end 2009 with a bang!

One of them is from a group which has withstood the test of time and is Bariles‘ personal favorite, having followed their career since he was in highschool.  He has not seen them perform live yet and that is why he is very much excited for their concert billed as “APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan!”

"The poster of the APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan Concert"

A project of McDale Productions, the same team who gave GenSan the riotous comedy concert, “POOH-K Laugh-Out-Loud“ with Pooh and Kaye Brosas, the “APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan” will happen on November 21, 2009 at the General Santos Gym, Barangay Lagao, which incidentally is the biggest gymnasium in Mindanao, with a capacity of 8,000 people!

APO Hiking Society‘s music has been reintroduced to the younger generation about 3-4 years ago with the revival of their songs by the country’s top bands and performers.  Songs which became famous during the 70s and 80s like Ewan, Nakapagtataka, Dobidoo, Yakap sa Dilim, Awit ng Barkada, Paano and many more, were given new treatment and once more, became bigger hits.  The APO’s songs and music are truly timeless!

For the APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan, expect most of these songs to be sung their own way that they were performed for the past four decades but backed up by the latest concert enhancements available today.  These plus their witty and funny takes on current political and national scenes infused into their acts will surely make the APO experience worthwhile for every general.

Ticket prices to the APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan are P250 (Silver); P500 (Gold); and, P1000 (Platinum).

And what is a GenSan Concert posted here without a corresponding BLOG CONTEST?

Watch out for an upcoming FEATURE on the “APO Hiking Society Live in GenSan” Blog Contest SOON brought to you by GenSan News Online Mag and McDale Productions.

General Santos City’s economy is really on a roll!

In the 2008 Annual Audit Report released by the Commission on Audit of the financial operations of the local government units,  General Santos City had a total income of P1,005,912,377.66!

This makes the Tuna Capital of the Philippines a certified member of the Billionaires Club!

This is also 12.7% increase from previous year’s (2007) income of P892,530,170.71!

Check out this comparative analysis between the incomes of 2007 and 2008 below…

"Comparative INCOME ANALYSIS of GenSan in 2007 and 2008"

Out of this 2008 total income of GenSan (which includes the IRA – Internal Revenue Allotment from the National Government), expenditures amounted to the following:

• Personal Services – ——————— ————–            P  402,030,712.39
• Maintenance and Operating Expenses -               P  391,552,510.80

TOTAL EXPENDITURES              -                                           P  793,583, 223.19

Deducted from the Total Income for 2008, this leaves the city with a Net Operating Income of P212,329,154.47 in 2008.

According to City Administrator Marcelino Dospueblos, a portion of this will go to paying off ongoing Capital Projects which are part of “continuing appropriations.“  The other portions will be subject for appropriations for the succeeding years.

NOTE: “Continuing Appropriations” is money devoted to Infrastructures and Capital Items which have not yet been completed or have not yet been started.

Congratulations to General Santos City for continuing to grow, glow and go!

Kudos to the local government under Mayor Jun Acharon for steering the wheel towards making the city truly a Magandang GenSan!

The unexpected happened on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at the 2009 Philippine Blog Awards Awarding Ceremony, the concluding activity of the 3rd Mindanao Bloggers Summit at the Pearlmont Hotel, along Limketkai Drive in Cagayan de Oro City.

Most of GenSan News Online Mag‘s readers know that this blog has been nominated in the CHIKKA Readers’ Choice Award for Mindanao of the PBA and there was less than 5 days for people to vote for it via Text Messaging.

With that limited time, Bariles was able to post an article about it, and put the link on his Facebook, Plurk, Twitter, Multiply and Friendster accounts. He informed his friends via email and notified his yahoogroups Notre Dame Highschool 1978 and the GenSan Generals in the Middle East . He also wrote to his Google Groups GenSan Camera Club, the Soccsksargen Bloggers Group and the Mindanao Bloggers E-group.

Bariles believed that if people liked what he has done with GenSan News Online Mag, then surely they will show their appreciation with their text votes! He even coined the phrase, “A vote for Bariles is a vote for GenSan!” to drive home his point.  And Bariles left it at that.

On Saturday evening, the night after the deadline of the text voting,  Bariles went up the stage after Juned Sonico, of the Philippine Blog Awards announced to a jampacked hall of Pearlmont Hotel in Cagayan de Oro that due to an overwhelming lead in the text voting, GENSAN NEWS ONLINE MAG is the CHIKKA READERS’ CHOICE AWARDEE for Mindanao!!!

"Bariles receiving the prize for GenSan News Online Mag's win as CHIKKA READERS' CHOICE AWARDEE from Philippine Blog Award's Juned Sonico."

Whoa! Bariles was holding back his tears when negotiating the short distance from his table to the stage.  He was very proud, to say the least and felt vindicated for the almost two years of hard work on his blog about his beloved city.  Looking out into the crowd, he beamed.  He really beamed!

But that was not all.  After a few minutes, Juned Sonico called the 10 names for the Globe Tatoo Digital Tribe Awardees for Mindanao, and yes, you are right!  Bariles was again summoned up the stage to receive his SECOND AWARD!  Other awardees were Oliver Robillo, ChiQ Montes, Migs Hipolito, Councilor Peter Lavina, Lyle Santos, Chattee Lara, Ria Jose, Bob Martin, and Andrew dela Serna.

"Bariles together with the 9 other recipients of the GLOBE TATOO Digital Tribe Award - Mindanao, Influencers and Movers of the Blogging Community."

Bariles was mega ecstatic over his double win and went back to his seat to relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.  He was only about to warm his seat when the familiar announcement, “…and the award goes to “GENSAN NEWS ONLINE MAG” reverberated inside the hall again!!!  This time, it is Google Philippines’ Aileen Apolo calling out the winner for the “BEST DESTINATION BLOG AWARD for Mindanao.“

"Bariles receiving his 3rd award, The Best Destination Blog in Mindanao, from his good friend and soon-to-blushing-bride, Google Philippines' Aileen Apolo."

When given the microphone to say something, Bariles was speechless. He would have wanted to share a wisecrack, say something witty or funny, being the natural comedian that he is but nothing came out.  All he could muster, after suppressing the tears that he was holding back for quite sometime now, was the awkward shout, “PARA SA GENSAN!”, while raising his 3rd trophy.

"Bariles and his trophies at the Philippine Blog Awards 2009- Mindanao."

And so with those unexpected wins, please allow Bariles to thank the following: (List to be updated later with links and additions… Sorry, hina na memory.)

• The Lord God Almighty.
• The 2009 Philippine Blog Awards Team, led by Juned Sonico.
• The 3rd Mindanao Bloggers Summit Team, led by ChiQ Montes.
• The Mindanao Bloggers Convenor, Blogie Robillo and his team.
• The 4 other co-founders of the Soccsksargen Bloggers:
  • Hector Minoza
  • Bro. Vince Celeste, FMS
  • Mark Aethen Agana
  • Job Oberio
  • Ariel Lalisan
• His ever-supported-till-the-very-end brother Orman Manansala of www.gandaeversomuch.com, who wrote a TOUCHING POST on this development.
• His Adsense teacher, Lyle Santos and his supportive gf, Brendel Balaga.
• The faithful readers and subscribers of GenSan News Online Magazine.  And yes, the lively and raucous commenters too!
• The Soccsksargen Bloggers, especially the more active ones who are always ready with their presence during meet-ups, plurk fiestas, eyeballs!
• The plurk fiesta sponsors of the GenSan Bloggers.
• The Blog Contest Sponsors of GenSan News Online Mag, especially Mr. Michael Wee of Dreamwork Ventures and owner of the soon-to-open in Robinsons’ Grab A Crab Resto and Coffee Club 101.
• Mr. Leonard Pe and the rest of his supportive colleagues at the CMO and up there at the SP.
• His boss, the incumbent chief executive who was instrumental to the grand success that is the 2nd Mindanao Bloggers Summit which Bariles spearheaded.
• The lady representative of the 1st District of South Cotabato, who has been a faithful reader all these months.
• His Facebook, Multiply and Plurk Friends, Fans and Followers… you know who you are.
• His bloggers friends from Soccsksargen and GenSan; Cagayan de Oro; the whole of Mindanao; and Manila… you know who you are.
• His late parents, Avelino and Maria for the inspiration and for instilling in him the virtue of patience and humility.  And beauty for that matter. (lol)
• And the last but not the least, YOU, the reader of GenSan News Online Mag who was able to put up with it for almost two years.

To all of you, MARAMING SALAMAT at isang MAS MAGANDANG GENSAN!!!!

Note:  Here is the complete set of winners of the 2009 Philippine Blog Awards – Mindanao.

• Best Business Blog – Negosyo Ideas
• Best Beauty Blog – The Doctor is Vain
• Mindanao Bloggers Choice – Davao Base
• Mindanao Advocacy Blog – Peace Initiatives in Socsargen
• Mindanao Destination Blog – GenSan News Online Mag
• Uniquely Mindanao Blog – Hola Zamboanga
• CHIKKA Readers’ Choice – GenSan News Online Mag
• Globe Tattoo DIGITAL TRIBE Awardees:
  • angdabawenyo.com
  • mindanao.com
  • alleba.com/blog
  • riajose.com
  • migsmobile.net
  • gensantos.com
  • katherinevlara.com
  • lylesantos.com
  • ptlavina.wordpress.com
  • chiqmontes.com

Here is a short video of the 2009 Philippine Blog Awards-Mindanao courtesy of fellow honoree Ryann Elumba of HOLA ZAMBOANGA.

The PACQUIAO-COTTO Fight in November 14, 2009, is one of this year’s most awaited boxing matches and we are sure that most of the readers of GenSan News Online would want to watch it live on pay per view in one of their locality’s movie houses, restaurants, malls and in the case here in GenSan, at the GenSan Gym in Barangay Lagao.

"A rendition of the Pacquiao-Cotto Fight Poster by artist Brian Brobbey-Griffiths"

At this point, one would know that the Pacquiao-Cotto fight is almost here when HBO starts drumbeating the event on TV.

Just like the past Pacquiao-Hatton and Pacquiao-Dela Hoya fights and the fights previous to these, HBO produced a 4-part documentary on the match, this time, entitled, “TATTOOS“.

To herald the airing of the first episode of the four-part series of the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO TV Special, “TATTOOS” on Saturday in the US (Sunday, Philippine time), the producers just released earlier this week the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Trailer.

And so without much further ado, here now is the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Trailer, “Tattoos“.  Enjoy!

Thanks to HBO for allowing us to post this Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 HBO Trailer. I hope they do the same with the regular episodes of their 24/7 TV Special of Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

Watch out for our feature on the Pacquiao-Cotto 24/7 First Episode here.

Yes!  GenSan News Online Mag is an official nominee to the Philippine Blog Awards – CHIKKA Readers’ Choice Award for Mindanao!!

"The Philippine Blog Awards Website"

The Philippine Blog Awards is a yearly event that aims to give recognition to outstandings blogs in but not limited to the Filipino Blogging Community since 2007.

For 2009, it adopted the theme:  One Blogging Nation.  For this reason, it included a search for outstanding blogs on a regional level.

Thus on the evening of October 24, 2009, during the 3rd Mindanao Bloggers Summit in Cagayan de Oro City, it will hand out awards to blogs by Mindanaoans, chosen through text messaging.

One of these is the CHIKKA Readers’ Choice Award where our humble blog, GenSan News Online Mag is nominated.

So, if you are a fan or a friend of Bariles and like what he does for General Santos City, please vote for this blog.

To vote, user just has to text CHIKKARC M4 and send to 2929 (Only via SMART & GLOBE). You an vote more than once.

Deadline for voting is October 23, 2009 which is on Friday already.

SMS voting = 3 votes per SMS sent (each SMS vote costs PHP 2.50)

If you are out of the country now, you can still help Bariles make it by ASKING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS back home to do the voting for you.  Now, how’s that?  Or else, if you have a roaming number, that will do.

Thanks to all of Bariles’ friends, fans, family, readers, and subscribers!!!  I love you all!!!

REMEMBER:  A vote for Bariles is a vote for GenSan!!!  GO GENERALS GO!!!

With the advent of Halloween or the Feast of the Dead in less than two weeks time, some establishments in General Santos City have started sending out feelers with regard to their promotions and marketing gimmicks earmarked for those days.

"The poster of Cocytus II"

One of them is Paseo del Sol, which in coordination with its newly-reinvented sister establishment, the Ranchero Grill and the Pablo’s Steaks and Crabs,is coming up with a dance party on the night of October 31, 2009 called Cocytus II (This night’s gonna be a good, good night!).

This is the second installment of their Halloween party which started last year.

Cocytus, which means “River of Lamentation” is a river in Greek Mythology’s “underworld“.

This time, in Cocytus II, R&B and Hiphop music all throughout the evening will be played out by DJ Zirk of Beatlab DJ Club.  With an entrance fee of only P150, guests can avail of a free drink.  And according to Marketing Manager Paolo Sunglao, ladies will be served FREE MARGARITAS!

Now that is really something to look forward to among our generals, don’t you think?   

Halloween night’s gonna be a good, good night!

While everyone was focused on the opening of GenSan City’s newest mall and the guys over at the online forum, Skyscraper City were busy  discussing the merits and demerits of the Tuna Capital’s traffic jams and traffic lights, a 3-story building was quietly inaugurated at Mateo Road, Lagao.

This is the 3-storey Aimican Ladies Dormitory which opened on August 8, 2009.  It is by far General Santos City’s biggest dormitory.

"The newly-built Aimican Ladies Dormitory, ready for occupants."

There was only a new caretaker around when Bariles dropped by one lazy Sunday afternoon. Being relatively new, she couldn’t offer any answer to the few questions the Fishman asked about the place though.  She does not even know the number of rooms inside the building.

Luckily, Bariles saw this tarpauline indicating the rates of the rooms available for would-be-dormers.

"The monthly rates for the occupants of Aimican Ladies Dormitory"

From what is indicated in this tarp, Aimican’s rates are very affordable.  Consider these:

• For a non-aircon room good for 6 persons, the monthly rental is only P1000 per head.
• For a non-aircon room good for 2 persons, the monthly rental is P1,200 per head.
• For an airconditioned room for 2 persons, the monthly rental is P4,000 for the whole room.
• Each dormer is entitled to the free use of an ELECTRIC IRON.
• Other electrical appliances will be charged a certain fee.

The entry of Aimican Ladies Dorm is good news for those parents who prefer a hotel or hospital-like setting for their children studying or working in GenSan.  Besides, it’s conveniently situated near the KCC, Robinsons and Gaisano Malls although quite far from the city’s educational institutions.

Lest we forget, Aimican Ladies Dormitory is located a few meters down the road from Family Country Hotel and Convention Center.  Hope to check out what’s inside soon.

From Notre Dame of Dadiangas University Alumni Affairs Coordinator, the hardworking Reuben Tugari, GenSan News Online received a piece of wonderful news!

After being granted Autonomous Status until 2014 by the Committee on Higher Education, which Bariles blogged about in an earlier post  (CLICK HERE), the premier Catholic university in General Santos City has just been accredited by the Bureau of Immigration to accept for admission, foreign students.

This was contained in a memorandum from the Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan dated August 7, 2009 to petitioner Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, with address at Marist Avenue, General Santos City.

Read the scanned memo below…

"The letter from Bureau of Immigration allowing NDDU to accept foreign students."

Bariles did not know that a university should at first be included in the list of BI-accredited schools for it to accept non-immigrant student before it can do so.    NDDU’s request for inclusion must be because of the much-improved  security in GenSan and elsewhere in the region, with its Board of Directors expecting an increase of foreign students seeking  affordable yet quality education.

Well, here’s hoping that with this development, we’ll be seeing more and more foreign expats who would realize that General Santos City offers not only export quality tuna but also boasts of exceptional educational institutions like the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University.

AMEN.

SUNLAB, a local Fashion Hub that houses the country’s most hip cult fashion brands with a strong street following, has just opened in Robinson’s Place, General Santos City.  It is jointly owned by a young and pretty “general”  Tisha Ang and her equally pretty friend, Davaoena Marga Nograles-Montemayor.

This Lifestyle HUB (which also has a branch in Davao) houses a line up of T-shirts, loungewear, bags and accessories that complement the famed Brazilian Flip Flop brand – HAVAIANAS.   These statement products are must-have items often seen on Hollywood and Pinoy Celebrities and many fashion magazines.

"Sunlab's Havaianas Display inside its Robinsons outlet"

Leading the brand pack is no less that the “Best Rubber Flip Flops in the World” – HAVAIANAS.  HAVAIANAS is Portugese for a word that is symbolic to the relaxed “hang loose” island culture that inspired the Brazilian designers way back in the 1960′s. 

Since their introduction over 40 years ago, at least 2.4 billion pairs of Havaianas have been produced—enough to encircle the globe 50 times if lined up heel to toe. The flip-flops are now available throughout the United States, Europe, South America, Australia and Asia.

Havaianas have a patented rubber formula as secret as the recipe for Coca Cola. Unlike other slippers, Havaianas are made from 100% rubber, making them extremely comfortable and they last much longer than an average pair of flip-flops. They are manufactured in only one factory in Brazil. The same company that markets the brand owns the plant where all Havaianas are produced, ensuring rigid quality control.

Below is a photo of a famous Pinay who goes for the brand.

"The President wearing Havaianas."

Aside from Havaianas, Sun Lab also distributes local award winning brands such as The Tshirt Project Tshirts (a Philippine-based design company that offers fresh and unique concepts on printed tshirts carried –out through the various brands under its arm).

It also carries Team Manila Tshirts & Accessories (a graphic design company that has built an impressive portfolio of award-winning works in broadcast and print design), Twix and Soak Bikinis, FYH, Therapy and Fashion Monster Bags (Chic, stylish and versatile bags) and Bubblegum & Kathang Kamay Accessories.

"Local branded shirts designed by multi-awarded artists are also part of SunLab's merchandise."

Most of these local labels are multi awarded brands, recognized by the likes of MTV awards, The Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Super awards, Entrepreneur of the Year awards, and more.

Bariles especially loves  BRANDED’s reproductions of iconic images from the vintage 70s like VST and Company, Rico J. Puno, Juan dela Cruz Band, Sarao Jeeps, Tito-Vic-and-Joey, and even candies like White Rabbit and Kendi Mint .

Too bad, when he visited the store, he couldn’t find any of his Idol, Nora Aunor shirt though.

When he last checked yesterday, still nada.  Hmmmm… it must be that popular. 

By the way, Sunlab is the Exclusive Sub Distributor in South East Mindanao of ALL that brands that they carry.

General Santos City is now getting to be known as the “Happenings Capital of the South Central Mindanao” especially with the conduct this weekend, starting tonight of East Asia Royale Hotel and San Miguel Beer‘s “OKTOBERFEST FOAM PARTIES“!

"The poster of East Asia Royale Arcade's OKTOBERFEST Foam Parties"

East Asia Royale Hotel is the only hotel in the Philippines which conducts regular Foam Parties.  According to its owner, Rombar Bartolome, other hotels as far as Davao and Cebu have been trying to rent their foam-making machines which his engineering team invented and built.

For this weekend, the foam parties will happen beginning tonight, October 16 and tomorrow, October 17.

Featured artists this evening are Davao’s Music Authority Band and GenSan’s Tool Box Band.  Providing the music mix will be DJ Yancy of P-noy Deejays Manila, DJ Torch of Davao City and Babes Bar Resident Disc Jockeys DJ Moko and DJ Phillip James.  Entrance Fee is only P80!

The bigger night will be tomorrow since this time, Retrospect Band of Manila will be headlining the Foam Party.  They will be frontacted by Birdseye Band of Davao City.  Entrance Fee is only P100.

Retrospect Band is known as the Philippines’ Retro Pop and Party Authority band.  Composed of members J. Martin, Onie and the lone female, Gold, it has won several citations and awards already, such as:

• 1998 AWIT Awards’ “Best Dance Music” nomination for the song “It’s Party Time!!!” from their self-titled album- REtroSPECT released thru DYNA Music
• “1999 Band Of The Year” awarded by Killer Bee of Bacolod City
• “2001 Most Outstanding Pop Group” in Music Category awarded by the Youth Council 2001 of Region 1
• 2001 ALIW AWARDS nomination for the “Best Performance by a Group in Music Lounges, Bars, Clubs and Restaurants for three consecutive years
• 2002 ALIW AWARDS nomination for the “Best Performance by a Group in Music Lounges, Bars, Clubs and Restaurants
• 2003 ALIW AWARDS nomination for the “Best Performance by a Group in Music Lounges, Bars, Clubs and Restaurants
• 2003 TINIG Awards nomination for Best Performing Group
• 2004 MTV Style Awards’ Best in Style (Group Category) held at The Tent, The Fort, Taguig, Manila
• 2005 SOP Music Awards’ “Best Dance Music” nomination over at SOP on GMA Channel 7
• 2006 National Life Awards’ “Most Promising Musical Group” held in the Province of Dagupan City, Pangasinan
• 2007 ALIW Awards’ “Best Group Performer” in Hotels, Bars and Music Lounges
• 2007 ALIW Awards’ “Special Awardee” for consistently providing the viewing public with top quality entertainment over the past decade
• 2008 ALIW Awards’ “Best Group Performer” in Hotels, Bars and Music Lounges

With all these, expect tomorrow evening’s Oktoberfest Foam Party at East Asia Royale Hotel Arcade to be one wild, wacky, and wickedly wet event!   Now here is a sample of their performance in this YouTube video…

The Grand Opening of Robinsons Place GenSan on October 5, 2009 should be one of the most anticipated events in the history of the Tuna Capital.  This is judging from the countless comments that we got here in every blog post that we published about the mall and from the various forums, news articles, blog write-ups which tackled the issue prior to its inauguration.

Being his biggest mall project in Mindanao, JG Summit‘s Chairman of the Board John Gokongwei‘s children, Lance (President of JG Summit Holdings) and Robina Pe, were present for the Opening Program, together with what must have been all their board officers and members.

When asked by ABS-CBN news reporter Jay Dayupay on their reasons for putting up a mall here, Mr. Lance Gokongwei specified three things:  GenSan’s population, its being the “crossroads and trading center of Soccsksargen“, and “a very enlightened political leadership“.

These were corroborated by Robinsons Land Corporations COO and General Manager Frederick Go and Commercial Center Division President Cornelio Mapa, who revealed that the property on which the mall stands was bought 15 years ago.

Of course, GenSan City local officials headed by Mayor Jun Acharon and Congresswoman Darlene Antonino-Custodio were there to personally welcome and thank the city’s biggest investors.  They were joined by GenSan celebrities like Dionisia Paccquiao and daughter-in-law Jinkee who were most sought after for photo ops among guests from Manila.

The Pacquiaos opened a franchise of BluGre Coffee in the mall plus their very own Team Pacquiao Novelty Shop.

Ably emceeing the program was ABS-CBN host Donita Rose while Christian Bautista provided the kilig factor with his rendition of a couple of songs.  Congressional spouse Ms. Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, image model of Robinsons Department Store was also there with her son, adding glamour to the event.

Here then are the Robinsons GenSan Grand Opening exclusive photos shot by Bariles himself.

"Robinsons Land Corp Group Property Manager for Mindanao Dan Camat; his boss, Frederick Go, President & COO; Dionisia Pacquiao; Press Secretary Jess Dureza; Jinkee Pacquiao; Congresswoman Darlene Custodio; GenSan First Lady Rose and Mayor Jun Acharon, moments before the program started."

"The simply elegant Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Rolee's Bakeshop's power couple Armi Magtoto and Bing Royeca, Hotelier and Giacomino's debonaire owner Romeo Bartolome are all smiles for Bariles' camera."

"The pretty and perky emcee Donita Rose with GenSan Mayor JUn Acharon."

"Champion Balladeer Christian Bautista pose with lovely generals, Ms. GenSan Tourism 2008 Alex Ho and Ms. GenSan 2008 Romarie Cunanan."

"GenSan Mayor Jun Acharon in a huddle with JG Summit Holdings President Lance Gokongwei and Press Sec Jess Dureza"

"Robinsons Department Store Endorser and Congressional Spouse Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo with Takuyaki and Senior Chito's Tortillas' owner Junit Bugayong and daughter Eliza."

"Dancers perform a muslim dance minutes before the official cutting of the ribbon signalling the opening of the mall at the Main Entrance."

"Two famous and feisty GenSan beauties, side by side: Jinkee Jamora-Pacquiao and Representative Darlene Antonino-Custodio."

"Mayor Acharon holds the ribbon after its ceremonial cutting with other special guests."

"RLC Pres Frederick Go, Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Mayor Acharon, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo,Jinkee Pacquiao, Representative Darlene Custodio, Dionisia Pacquiao, JG Summit Pres Lance Gokongwei, Commercial Center Division Pres Cornelio Mapa, and host Donita Rose raise and drink their toasts for Robinsons while balloons fall down from the ceiling."

Finally, here is the video of the ABS-CBN Socsksargen news report on the Robinsons GenSan Grand Opening which contains interviews of Mr. Lance Gokongwei, Mr. Frederick Go, Mr. Cornelio Mapa and Mayor Acharon.  Thanks to Rammyboi for uploading it to YouTube.

For people in General Santos City and the outlying areas who love Chinese Food, here is a piece of good news!

Chowking, the #1 Chinese Fastfood Restaurant chain in the country is set to open its second branch in General Santos City to augment its first one at the KCC Mall of GenSan!

The new Chowking which will be a stand-alone branch will be housed at the Yap property now being constructed beside the Land Bank Branch Building along the National Highway.  It is right across the 24-hour Jollibee outlet of the Teng Family.

The restaurant is reportedly company-owned and it will just be leasing the area provided by the Yaps.   There is no word yet on whether it will operated on a 24-hour basis just like its neighbor across the road but Bariles feels that it should.

Traffic along the National Highway is on a 24/7 roll and if the Jollibee outlet there was able to survive, then the owners of Chowking should not have any worries.

And besides, they should just take into consideration the proliferation of lugawan and arros caldohan eateries in these areas to realize that nocturnal businesses offering piping hot dishes could survive in these parts.

"Chowking Highway GenSan Branch undergoing construction!"

Bariles who took the photo of the construction above, observed that the building stands perpendicular to the National Highway, owing to the limited size of the property. This means that the only way for cars to get in is to enter from the right side of the highway, facing west. Problem is, this is right in the center of the junction where the traffic light signal system is situated.

This could prove to be a major bottleneck in the area.

However, Bariles still believes that there is nothing that could not be solved through dialogues between the Chowking owners and the local government who handles traffic matters. What should be first and foremost in the minds of both parties is to come up with a win-win solution redounding to the benefit of the people of GenSan, both investors and the buying public alike.

And all these are for the continued development of the Tuna Capital! (nosebleed)

At first it was only Mitsubishi Philippines and Honda Cars hugging the limelight in General Santos, being the only sales and service centers of major car manufacturers in the city. Franchised by the Regollo Family, and the Ced Family respectively,  their GenSan branches were their Japanese franchisors’ top dealerships in the Philippines for more than a couple of years owing to the warm patronage of the people of South Central Mindanao or Region XII.

For the rest of the owners of other car brands in the Tuna Capital, they would have to drive their vehicles to Davao City 150 kms away if they want them serviced by their respective official service centers located there. Or if they want to purchase vehicles other than the Mitsubishi and Honda brands, then the Durian Capital is the nearest place to visit.

Finally in October 2007, to answer the clamor from its numerous clients and prospective customers, Hyundai Philippines decided to construct and open their own along the National Highway a few meters away from Mitsubishi GenSan. No less than GenSan Mayor Jun Acharon led the inauguration of the new Hyundai Sales and Service Center-General Santos!

"GenSan City Mayor Jun Acharon address the inauguration of Hyundai Phils-GenSan on October 2007."

Then, a few months later, in May 2, 2008, due also to the city’s burgeoning population, it was the turn of Toyota Motors Philippines to open its franchise outlet along the same strip at the National Highway of General Santos. This time, its Davao dealer, Mr. Jose Lim also took up the reins of handling the dealership in GenSan, which he says is a project benefiting not only the city but the whole of Region 12.

This new investment totalled P120 million pesos and employed almost a hundred local hires. During its inaugural program, Mayor Jun Acharon thanked the Toyota bigwigs who were present at that time including Toyota Motor Phils. President, Mr. Hiroshi Ito, and Toyota Dealers Association the Phils. President Mr. Francis Castillo Laurel.

"This time, Mayor Acharon keynotes the Inaugural Dinner for the new Toyota GenSan on May 2008."

And now, more than a year after that, here is another car dealership whose owners have again acknowledged the soundness of investing in General Santos City and have joined the bandwagon of large multinationals which have settled here including Toyota, Hyundai, the just-opened Robinsons Mall, SM Malls and many more.

Welcome to GenSan, Isuzu Philippines Corporation through its franchise, Isuzu MTL GenSan Motors, Inc.

Here are photos of the Isuzu building which is now undergoing construction at its location along the National Highway in Barangay Apopong, a few meters before reaching Forest Lake San Carlos.

"The building of ISUZU GenSan undergoing construction at the National Highway, Apopong."

This is just the 3rd Dealership of Isuzu Philippines Corporation in Mindanao, following the ones in Cagayan de Oro (Cebu Southern Motors Inc) and Davao City (Southern Motors of Davao Inc).

"The Signboard infront of the ISUZU GenSan construction."

With this development, GenSan continues to roll!!!!

Here are some of the latest Dionesia Pacquiao funny pictures which Bariles got through his email.  These are now circulating in the Internet and hopefully, he could get the name of its creator.

Anyway, to whoever created these PHOTOSHOPPED spoofs featuring not only of Manny Pacquiao‘s famous mom Dionesia but also of other Pinoy politicians/Presidentiable who are currently very much in the news, GenSan News Online Mag would like to congratulate you for putting smiles on our faces despite the current catastrophes the country have encountered very recently.

So, without much further ado, here are the funny pictures… beginning with the Pacmom, Mommy Dionesia Pacquiao!

"Mommy Dionesia Pacquiao's funny picture, a take on the ABS-CBN early evening teleserye, KATORSE. She looks lovely here."

Now, here is the second Mommy Dionesia Pacquiao’s funny picture, a spoof on the movie, “Time Traveller’s Wife“.

"Another Mommy Dionesia Pacquiao Funny Picture based on the poster for the movie, The Time Traveller's Wife. This time she has been transformed into the Dance Instructor's Wife."

The next funny picture is a spoof on the recent blockbuster concert of the two singing greats, Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano, “As ONe“.  This time, it features, Presidentiable Noynoy Aquino and running mate for the 2010 National Elections, Mar Roxas.

"A spoof on the poster of AS ONE, Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano's recent concert featuring the Noynoy-Mar Tandem."

Down below is the “Boys Over Flowers” spoof this time with the other Presidentiables Erap, Chiz Escudero, Manny Villar and Gilbert Teodoro with the lone lady Loren Legarda, taking over the characters of the hit Korean telenovela.

Boys over Flower, becomes Boys Over Loren in this spoof with Presidentiables Erap, Chiz, Manny, Gilbert and Loren.

Now here is a funny picture of Vice President Noli de Castro, the “undecided” presidentiable who has refused to entertain invitation feelers from the LAKAS-KAMPI CMD Party…

"Undecided Presidentiable Noli de Castro in this spoof on Indiana Jones."

And finally, a send-up on the movie “Twilight” with the possible Chiz Escudero and Loren Legarda tandem for the NP Party.

"A Twilight spoof with Chiz Escudero and Loren Legarda, their possible team-up for the NP Party highlighted here."

These pictures again show the Pinoy’s love for spoofs and say so much about how he handles the seemingly endless problems that the country is facing – - with humor and laughter.

Again, to the creator of these funny pictures, maraming salamat sa muli ninyong pagpapatawa sa amin.

Don’t forget to check out other Funny Pictures of Manny Pacquiao in the Related Posts below…

General Santos City adds another feather to its cap with its major win at the recently concluded 10th ATOP National Convention held last week at the Tuna Capital.

Its Kalilangan Festival, which is celebrated annually every February in commemoration of the city’s Foundation Anniversary was awarded by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines as the Best Tourism Event of 2009 – Major City Category.

2009 Kalilangan Festival Logo

The award was handed out by Tourism Secretary Ace Durano during the final night of the 3-day gathering at the KCC Convention and Event Center, as part of the ATOP Best Tourism Practices Awards.  This is a project of both the ATOP and the Department of Tourism with the aim to “recognize and honor the most outstanding/ significant tourism projects and programs and tourism officers who have excelled in their respective local government units.”

“It is for this reason the ATOP decided to institutionalize an annual system of recognition of distinguished tourism personalities, groups, and events. The ATOP Best Tourism Practices Award hopes to celebrate the best in the tourism industry, which become the pillar of the society.” (source: WOWPhilippines)

"DOT Secretary Ace Durano at the Awards Night of the Best Tourism Practices Awards during the 10th ATOP National Convention."

Receiving the Best Tourism Event Award from Secretary Durano were Tourism Council Vice-Chairman Rey Billena, in behalf of Chairman Mayor Jun Acharon and GenSan City Councilor Richard Atendido, who chairs the Tourism Committee at the SP.

In previous years, the nearest that the city got to the championship was when its Tuna Festival won as First-Runner Up last year, during the Awards Night in Iloilo City, host of the 9th ATOP National Convention.

In an interview later this week, Mayor Acharon thanked not only the ATOP but also the GSC Tourism Association, the Festival Director Orman Manansala, and the members of the GSC Tourism Council for helping make this recognition possible.

Congratulations to the people behind Kalilangan Festival!

For those who regularly follow ABS-CBN’s programs, you should have known by now that another general, or for the unitiated, a “native of General Santos City” has started filtering into the consciousness of the country after her identity was revealed at the initial telecast of the new season of the reality TV show, Pinoy Big Brother, which has been dubbed PBB Double-Up.

This PBB Grand Winner hopeful’s name is Melissa Cantiveros,  a student of the Mindanao State University in Tambler, GenSan whom they have tagged as “Inday Kengkay“.  Her nickname is MELAI.

MELAI hails from Barangay Calumpang and wants to be a teacher.  She majors in English at the MSU and is as funny in person as she is from the first few times we see her inside Kuya’s new house.

Bariles was personally present when it was MELAI‘s group of 20 auditioners’ turn to be presented to PBB Resident Director Laurenti Dyogi during auditions at the GenSan Gym in Barangay Lagao last April 26, 2009.

It was a long day for everyone and only about a 3rd of the more than 10,000 hopefuls from Soccsksargen and as far as Zamboanga and Cebu have already been given the look-see by Direk Dyogi.

Melissa, a tiny wisp of a girl wasn’t noticeable the first time Bariles saw her lined up against the wall with other Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson-wanna-bees while facing the unsmiling director inside the screening room of the gym  But when she started giggling and quipped funny answers to the director’s questions, mixing her Tagalog and English with a smattering of Cebuano, she came across as a natural comedienne.

When the director pushed her for more answers, Bariles knew then that she’d make it to the first screening

"That's Melissa and other 2nd Screening Passers, while waiting for their turn during PBB Auditions at the GenSan Gym.:

Melai did survive the first screening and stayed on, to pass the 2nd screening, where they were whittled down to 30 a few hours after.  Finally, before midnight came, she landed among the top 10!

Melai bested so many taller and prettier girls and if you see her up front, you wouldn’t immediately notice the qualities that made ABS-CBN choose her from more than 10,000 young men and women who auditioned in GenSan or for that matter, more than 70,000 from all over the Philippines.  But now that you see her on TV, you will gradually find out that she really got what it takes to have made it this far and maybe become GenSan’s first PBB Grand Winner.

If she plays her cards right and never forgets that her stint inside Big Brother’s House is still a GAME first and foremost;  and,  eventually make it into the finals, then it is our turn as her fellow GENERALS to take out our CELLPHONES and start voting for her eventual VICTORY!

Meanwhile, here are other pictures during the PBB Auditions in General Santos City.

"The kilometric line leading to the gate and main entrance of GenSan Gym."

"PBB hopefuls wait patiently for their turn to enter GenSan Gym."

"Pinoy Dream Academy's Teacher Monet Silvestre and Pinoy Big Brother Director Laurenti Dyogi greet the 10,000 young hopefuls at the GenSan Gym."

"With thousands more still outside, Director Laurenti Dyogi gives instructions to the first batch of auditioners inside the GenSan Gym. The screening is about to begin."

"Just a few of the young generals wanting to gain entry into the house of Big Brother."

"Some more PBB hopefuls."

"Some of the young generals who passed the first 3 screenings."

But there can only be one……

"Melissa, with the other girl finalists of the PBB Audition in GenSan while waiting for their turn to be screened again by Direk Laurenti."

And so, from us here at GenSan News Online Mag, CONGRATULATIONS to Inday Kengkay Melissa and GOOD LUCK!  We promise to support you all the way!

Mabuhay ka!!!

And one more pahabol picture….

"Bariles with ABS-CBN Socsksargen News Bureau Chief Myric Kapunan and her staff inside the PBB Screening Room."

October 8, 2009. Here is the exclusive ABS-CBN Socsargen Report. Thanks to Rammyboi for the link. More updates coming up soon!

This just in!

Everyone already knows that today, Monday is the Grand Opening of Robinsons Place General Santos and that showbiz personalities like Donita Rose, Christian Bautista, Yasmien Kurdi and Ms. Dawn Zulueta will be on hand to welcome the mall’s first batch of shoppers.

But do you also know that a few meters down the block, the KCC Mall of GenSan is also inaugurating its new North Wing and has commissioned no less than Star in a Million Champion Erik Santos to headline its lineup of entertainers?

"KCC Mall of GenSan's Poster for Erick Santos' appearance at its North Wing inauguration"

Erik Santos will be performing in a show at the mall’s Convention and Event Center, the same floor where most of KCC’s new shops are opening today.  In addition to Plains and Prints, Folded and Hung and Crocs which we mentioned in an EARLIER POST yesterday, other brand names opening their own outlets there are Keeshia and SOLO.

Concert Queen Pops Fernandez was KCC Mall‘s first showbiz guest yesterday and at the rate they are going, it seems that we can expect more Manila performers from them just to prove that they are meeting Robinsons Place of GenSan‘s’ parade of stars head-on.

So how will you manage your time?  Where will you go and shop today?

The day that practically most of Soccsksargen have been waiting for is here – the Grand Opening of the region’s newest and most anticipated mall – the Robinsons Place General Santos City!

Slated to open tomorrow October 5, 2009 (Monday) to showcase its flagship stores, the Robinsons Department Store, the Robinsons Supermarket, the Handyman and Robinsons Appliance Center, the management of taipan Gokongwei’s biggest investment in Mindanao has made sure that it will be their most star-studded inauguration ever!

"The FLYER for the GRAND OPENING of Robinsons Place Gen. Santos City.

Tasked to host the 11am Grand Opening Ceremony tomorrow at the Activity Area is former MTV VJ and current host of the ABS-CBN morning show, “Umagang Kay Ganda“, Donita Rose.

Donita’s job will be tough because not only will the “generals” be there to witness how she handles this much-awaited event but also dignitaries from Manila.

The entourage could include the owners Robina Gokongwei-Pe and her brother Lance Gokongwei. Bariles is  not certain though if their old man will be there.  Ms. Robina (to whom this chain of malls were named after) was here last year during the baptism of Manny Pacquiao’s daughter Queenie and Bariles was even able to chat with her.  (Read the Post by Clicking here.)

Together with Ms. Donita Rose and to serenade the who’s who of  GenSan invited to the Grand Opening Ceremony is balladeer Christian Bautista who just released an album of Jose Mari Chan’s songs.

Later on, at 3pm fans will have a chance to MEET and GREET Ms. Dawn Zulueta at the Robinsons Department Store.

An hour later at 4pm, Kapuso star Yasmien Kurdi will also delight shoppers at the Robinsons Supermarket.

But that is not all, generals!

Next weekend, we will all have our hands full ogling at the presence of Derek Ramsay on October 10 at 4pm and Ms. Iza Calzado on October 11 at 4pm.

Wow!  Bariles can’t wait for these events to happen at Robinsons Place GenSan and he is pretty damn sure that you too are much excited as he is.

In fact, he is betting his two balls that he will see you there!!!!