06/09/2026
TUNA FESTIVAL 2026: CELEBRATING RESILIENCE, UNITY, AND THE SPIRIT OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY
The Tuna Festival 2026 once again brought General Santos City to life from September 1 to 5, celebrating the city’s identity as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. More than a celebration of the country’s thriving tuna industry, this year’s festival became a powerful symbol of courage, unity, and hope.
Carrying the theme “Giting at Pagkakaisa, sa Pagbangon Sama-sama,” the festival highlighted the strength of the people of General Santos as they continued to rebuild after the devastating earthquake that struck the city earlier in the year.
The five-day celebration featured activities that showcased the city’s culture, livelihood, food, music, and community spirit. Among the highlights were the Tuna Float Parade, culinary activities, Fish Fest, Fisherfolks’ Day, Sugbahan sa Dalan, and various community and entertainment events.
What made Tuna Festival 2026 particularly meaningful was its focus on the people behind the celebration—the fisherfolk, fish-port workers, entrepreneurs, performers, local businesses, volunteers, and residents who continue to contribute to the growth of General Santos City.
Despite the challenges brought by the earthquake, the city chose to celebrate in a more modest yet meaningful way. The festival demonstrated that celebrations are not only about grand performances and festivities, but also about recognizing the strength of a community and supporting those who are rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.
Tuna Festival 2026 therefore stood as a reminder that General Santos City continues to move forward through unity and determination. It celebrated not only tuna, but also the courage, resilience, and collective spirit of the people of GenSan.
