It's the last day of the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 and we still had a lot more to experience and explore. Wake up call was still before sunrise but it was an exciting day, for me, at least. It was the day we will visit the fish port in General Santos (Gensan) and I was looking forward to it. It was actually our first pitstop. We had to be there before breakfast since the port becomes really busy as early as 6am and it would be a worthy experience to catch just that.

Group photo at General Santos Fish Port

Gensan is the Philippine's tuna capital as the city houses the largest processing and landings of tuna in the country. Thanks to tuna abundant bodies of water that surrounds the city. For further details, please refer to my post entitled The Tuna Capital.

Breakfast was next on our list. The group were ushered by Avel Manansala, our host for the Soccsksargen Experience Tour to Gamay Eatery. It is located at Lanoy, Calumpang in General Santos City and is well-known for its Balbacua.

Balbacua at Gamay Eatery

Thank you to owners Cesar "Gamay" Garaygay and Mary Jane Garaygay for our interesting breakfast.

The group proceeded to Big Glory Bay Salmon & Seafood Company, Inc. in Purok Saydala, Barangay Tambler, General Santos City after breakfast. As of this posting, it is the Asia's most modern salmon processing plant. It is also the first in the Philippines. We had the privilege of sampling various salmon goods courtesy of Assistant Plant Manager Salvador Magbanua, Jr.

We had to wear lab gowns and boots during our tour inside the Salmon Processing Plant

It was particularly cold inside the plant. We were literally inside a giant freezer. My very petite frame was useless to the chill. But everyone were amazed on how clean the facilities are. We were fortunate to have been given a chance to see another first for the country. I bought a few salmons for my family and my father particularly enjoyed it. Will have to buy more on my next visit.

Lunch was calling when we got out of Big Glory and chicken was in the menu. My favorite! We went to Beestop, located at RD Building, Santiago Boulevard, Gensan. No, they don't serve bees. Instead, they offer very affordable chicken meals!

Beestop Restaurant

Their garlic fried chicken is a must-try. Single meals cost Php50 and includes a cup of rice! They also serve snacks like spaghetti and sandwiches. Pancit is also available. Choose from canton, sotanghon, or bihon. Order fruit shakes and ice cream to complete your meal.

Lunch was courtesy of Beestop owner, Charlene Enriquez. For further details, you may visit the Beestop Facebook.

We had a few hours to spare before dinner so the group went to relax at Robinson's Place while we wait for the tuna float parade. Some explored the mall, others took a nap, and the rest chatted away over drinks. We also got the chance to take photos of the floats that were parked in the mall's parking area before the start of the parade.

A few tuna floats waiting for the street parade to start.

The parade didn't start on time and we couldn't wait longer so we decided to catch it later and proceeded to our two-part dinner. Yes, we ate dinner twice and no one complained! Delicious food is always welcome. Our first dinner stop was at Asian Tongue, that serves Asian cuisines.

Asian Tongue

Visit Asian Tongue at Roxas East Avenue, General Santos City. It is right across DSWD, Oval. Dinner was courtesy of restaurant manager, Vince Blanco. Here's an important reminder: Their sisig is a bestseller. Make sure you order one on your next visit. We had one on the table where I was sitting. When picture taking ended, I stood up for a few minutes to get some vegetables on the other table. When I returned, the sisig plate was literally empty! I, and a fellow blogger who was sitting beside me had 1/4 of a spoon filled sisig to taste!

We decided to walk to our next dinner destination to give our tummies a chance to digest that delicious courses we just ate. Sydney Hotel was our last pitstop for the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 ... and our 2nd dinner stop. Thank you to hotel manager, Elmar Fabiala for our dinner.

The group dined on the rooftop and was lucky at that because we had a good view of the tuna float parade when it reached the area. Too bad for my camera that has a poor zooming power. The floats looked magnificent with all the lights decorations.

The day after, I went back home and brought with me all the good memories, experiences, and new friendships I gained during the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3. From the bottom of my heart, I'd like to say thank you to brothers Orman Manansala and Avel Manansala, in cooperation with the Sox Bloggers, for giving me the chance to participate in this 4-day event.

The 3rd day of the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 (S3x Tour Tres) was another exhilarating day and I was totally looking forward to it. This 4-day event happens twice a year and is organized by brothers Avel Manansala and Orman Manansala, in cooperation with the Soccsksargen bloggers. A group of selected bloggers explored destinations all over South Central Mindanao. All these in the middle of the Tuna Festival happening in General Santos City.

Our first stop for the 3rd day was at Blue Haven Resort and Durian Garden in Banga, South Cotabato. We had our breakfast here of crispy fried tilapia and durian shake courtesy of resort owner, Gemma Young Paciente with contact no. (083) 239-2616.

Group shot at Blue Haven Resort

The resort includes pools and picnic areas. It has a small animal sanctuary that housed a few interesting animals such as crows, cockatoos, and 2 civet cats to name a few. It can also accommodate wedding receptions or other special occasions.

Some of the animals at Blue Haven Resort

I particularly enjoyed playing with the civet cats named Max and Rex. They were very playful, not to mention that they help in the production of one of the finest tasting coffee beans!

After breakfast, we traveled to 7 Falls at Lake Sebu, still in South Cotabato. I've heard raves from friends who have been here during the previous Soccsksargen Experience Tour and as I stepped into the park, I immediately knew why. 7 Falls got it name from the fact that it houses 7 falls and the tallest zipline in Southeast Asia! Cool!

One of the falls at 7 Falls, Lake Sebu

Zipline at 7 Falls at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato with friend Cai Abass

After experiencing one of the fastest ziplines at 5th Mountain the previous day, I was anticipating my next zipline experience at Lake Sebu. As of posting, it has the tallest zipline in Southeast Asia. I just had to set aside my fear of heights. Compared to my zipline experience at 5th Mountain wherein we were launched in a sitting position, the zipline in 7 Falls had us lay in our belly with our full frontal fully supported. It's like flying like Superman!

Here's a short video of my zipline experience at 7 Falls. I didn't mute the original sound but subdued the volume to make my screams a little bearable to hear. ;)

Thank you to South Cotabato Governor Dr. Dodo Pingoy for sponsoring our zipline adventure through our tour facilitator, Gerald Agujitas. The zipline costs Php250 per person ($6) that includes 2 different rides.

There are assigned photographers at the end of each zipline and you have the option to have a printed copy of your pictures for Php100 ($2) per 2 photos. You also have the option of saving all your shots on an external drive for an additional Php100 ($2).

We proceeded to Punta Isla Resort to meet Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio Fungan, Sr.

with Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio Fungan Sr. (standing in the middle, wearing white polo) Photo taken with Lake Sebu as backdrop

We took our lunch at Lemobung Lodge or Log Cabin Resort in Lake Sebu. Our fresh and delectable lunch was courtesy of Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio Fungan Sr. The lodge was located right beside Lake Sebu. It's one of the most relaxing places I've been to.

Fresh Tilapia was the highlight of my lunch.

Taking a break at Lemobung Lodge.

Our pitstop after lunch is at Paraiso Verde Resort and Water Park located at Koronadal City, South Cotabato. Paraiso Verde houses the only wave pool in Soccsksargen region and it features 4 water adventures:

• Moby Wave Pool


• River Rapids


• Wiggles Kiddie Pool


• Freestyle Pool

Moby Wave Pool Paraiso Verde Resort and Water Park

I had a blast in the wave pool! I recommend borrowing a salbabida (an inflated tire tube) when the waves arrive at the Moby Pool. Sit on it and allow yourself to float and be shaken by the waves! Personally, it was a relaxing water attraction.

To take a glimpse into what Paraiso Verde Resort and Water Park has to offer, check out this video.

Snack was served at Cinco Niñas Filipino Cuisine courtesy of the resort.

Most of us wanted to stay longer but we had to head back to General Santos City to see something spectacular ... and for dinner! Yay! We went straight to Manilay Ancestral House in VS Homes, Nunez St. in General Santos City.

Manilay Ancestral House

Manilay Ancestral House was built in the heart of General Santos from authentic house materials of old houses from Laguna and Batangas. According to owner, Dr. Gregorio Warren A. Manilay, it started out with just collecting antiques that he and his wife have been doing for several years now. Eventually, they decided to feature this collection by setting up the Manilay Ancestral House. It took the couple 2 years to finally open the house to tourists and friends. They also accommodate photo shoots. A good place for a pre-nuptial shoot!

If you like a place that could take you back to the past, this is definitely it. The Manilay Ancestral House was featured in Manila Bulletin last October 2010. Read the article here.

We had the privilege of having our dinner here courtesy of Mr. & Ms. Warren and Sarah Manilay. Everyone was busy admiring the place before and after dinner.

Inside Manilay Ancestral House

I was extremely fascinated with a restored truck parked at the garage (refer to above photo). Dr. Manilay said that they purchased this for Php200 ($6) when they saw it abandoned in a pier. It is now fully restored and functioning! I would have enjoyed a test drive!

General Santos City Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio joined us at Manilay Ancestral House for dinner amidst her busy schedule.

Day 4 of the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 is up next! Don't miss any post, subscribe!

Grey Livingston once said, "Beauty comes as much from the mind as from the eye." Every year, all across the world, various beauty pageants are being held sharing one common objective -- to search for the beautiful. We continuously seek beauty that is not just a manifestation of physical attractiveness, but of good character and intelligence as well.

The Filipinos is not an exception to this search. We do love holding beauty pageants. Earlier this month, I had a privilege of witnessing live, a beauty pageant, the Mr. and Ms. Gensan 2011, during the Soccskscargen Experience 3.

Before I proceed, I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate our very own, Ms. Shamcey Supsup for being 3rd runner-up in the recently concluded Miss Universe 2011, held in São Paulo, Brazil last September 12, 2011. The lovely Shamcey is actually from General Santos City.

Ms. Shamcey Supsup, 3rd runner-up, Miss Universe 2011

The search for Mr. and Ms. Gensan 2011 was held on September 03, 2011 at the KCC Convention and Events Center in General Santos City amidst the annual Tuna Festival. It was my first time to attend a pageant, up close and personal! Thank you to event organizer Mr. Orman Manansala for giving us great seats and for a very successful pageant.

Contestants showcasing their respective Tuna Festival inspired costumes.

The pageant started with each of the 20 participants (10 ladies, 10 gentlemen) owning the runway with their respective costumes that was inspired by the Tuna Festival. It was my personal favorite. I have to give each of them a 2 thumbs up for sheer creativity!

Here are a few personal insights as an audience to Mr. and Ms. Gensan 2011:

1. Stage Simplicity - I appreciated the fact that the pageant stage had a very simple setup. There were no elaborate props. There was only a huge screen at the back to help audiences have a closer look at what transpires on stage. And when I say huge, it literally became the backdrop of the entire stage. You wouldn't miss a thing! Anyway, I found the simplicity a more practical approach. This made the judges and the viewers focus their attention to each candidate instead of being distracted by stage props.



2. Innovative - Mr. and Ms. Gensan 2011 is the first beauty pageant to make use of the iPad for the final question and answer portion. The idea is to eliminate the need to isolate a contestant if the same question would be asked for each one. My vote goes to pageants that have a common final question as each finalist would be challenged with the same level of difficulty.
   
   
   During the pageant, each of the 3 finalists were asked, "Who is your role model, and why?" They were given 2 minutes to type in their answers into the iPad provided. My concern with this approach is the difference of familiarity with the gadget of each contestant. For instance, I may type fast on a touch screen device, but someone will always be faster or slower than me. I was thinking, what if the finalists were given stylus pens instead? Handwritten answers could cancel the issue of who is better in typing and gadget familiarity.








Participants keying in their answers on an iPad for the Q & A portion.




3. Language - Prior to the Q & A segment, each contestant were reminded that they could answer in English, Tagalog, or in their native dialect. The questions were asked in English. Based on experience, people instinctively answer a question using the same language the query was asked. If a person talks to me in English, I would naturally converse with him/her using the same language. And so, I understand how most of the contestants struggled to answer in English. I can't help but wonder (as Carrie Bradshaw of Sex and the City would always say), if the questions were raised in Tagalog or in their native dialect, would the contestants still answer in English?

Winners of Mr. and Ms. Gensan Pageant 2011 From left: Windy Lou Pontino and Serafin Lim (2nd runners-up), Caroline Lim and Marc Jeric Chan (Ms. and Mr. Gensan 2011), Ayana Grico and Jeffthie Cardino (1st runners-up)

The Mr. and Ms. Gensan 2011 has set a new standard for beauty pageants with its well-organized procedures and innovations. It has been a pleasure to have witnessed the event personally. Congratulations to the winners and most of all, to its organizers.

It is the second day of the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 (S3X Tour Tres) and we were all ready to travel to our first pitstop just before sunrise. I really didn't mind waking up really early in the morning during the entire event. We all get to catch up on sleep on a very comfortable van and we are always greeted with healthy and delicious breakfast. It felt good to always start our day that way.

Our first stop was at 5th Mountain Adventure Park in Balakayo, General Santos. Thank you to owners Mr. & Mrs. James and Twilight Betonio for the delightful breakfast that they served us.

Breakfast at 5th Mountain, General Santos City

5th Mountain Adventure Park offers the first cable car adventure in General Santos. It was recently completed and is now available for only Php200 ($4.5) per person. The cable car can carry between 4 to 6 people per ride.

The group decided to experience the Cable Car prior to breakfast to avoid getting sick during the ride. It was a good decision. The height can get quite scary. The experience is another personal challenge. As much as I am afraid of the water, I am also scared of heights. But once the ride starts, I had no time to think of my fear as the view was magnificent.

Cable Car Ride at 5th Mountain Adventure Park

The next personal obstacle I had to face was the zipline, still at 5th Mountain Adventure Park. It is one of the fastest ziplines here in the Philippines. May I add that it is also the scariest as there is a few seconds of free fall motion at the beginning of the ride. As much as I intended not to scream, I just couldn't help myself.

Like a virgin, it was my first time to try a zipline and I was scared to the bones. I honestly almost backed out as I looked into the horizon of where I was zipping in. But a friend reminded me how rare such opportunities are and I should conquer my fears. I had to let several people go before me to accumulate enough courage to finally do it. There is a saying that goes, save the best for last. Well, I say, go for the best on the first time.

Zipline at 5th Mountain Adventure Park, General Santos Photos courtesy of Habagat Central

The zipline at 5th Mountain Adventure Park includes a harness that fits to your waist and supports your bottom. This harness and your safety helmet will be scrutinized before you zip in. There will be 2 zipline cables that would support you on the ride. The fact that your harness is secured in the middle of your body allows you flexibility. This means you can easily lean back and opt to be inverted as you enjoy your zipline experience. A few from our group did it and I was completely astonished.

I have to say, it was worth swallowing my fear of heights. The view was breathtaking.

The zipline costs Php250 ($6) per person that includes 2 rides. One going to a drop off point and another going back to the park. The return is where the cable car is. Don't worry, no rides will be simultaneous.

The group took some photos and rested for awhile before we left for lunch. We went to Mt. Sabrina Restaurant Resort in Tambler, General Santos. Their main business is catering services. Our lunch was courtesy of Ms. Soledad "Sol" Manangquil, dubbed as the Queen of Tuna Cuisine and owner of said resort.

Lunch at Mt. Sabrina Restaurant Resort in Tambler, General Santos

After lunch, we went to the city and into our respective hotels to change for a more formal event in line for the evening. We were given an hour to freshen up before we rendezvous at Montage Digital Photography for a group picture. The studio is located at the 2F Atrium, Gaisano Mall of General Santos City. Thank you to co-owner Mr. Omar Gallinero for graciously accommodating us that afternoon and for taking some amazing shots.

One of the group pictures courtesy of Montage Digital Photography

Afternoon snacks or merienda was next in our agenda on the second day of S3X Tour Tres. Destination is Calda Pizza, situated at the first floor of Gaisano Mall. It was my first time (see, I'm a virgin in so many ways) to actually see a 36" pizza! We were served 2 of these! I wonder how these are delivered.

36" Pizza at Calda Pizza in Gaisano Mall, General Santos

The highlight of the evening is the annual Mr. and Ms. GenSan 2011 Beauty Pageant. The pageant was held at the KCC Convention & Events Center, General Santos City and produced/organized by Orman Manansala.

I personally enjoyed the costumes each participant proudly showcased during the event. I was highly entertained and impressed by how the beauty pageant transpired. Will discuss this more on a separate post.

Mr. and Ms. Gensan Beauty Pageant 2011

The day will never end without a hearty meal for dinner. After the pageant, we went to Tuna Grill Restaurant in Quirino St., General Santos City. Thank you to Mr. June Amistad for our delicious meal and to Representative Teddy Casino (Bayan Muna Partylist) for dining with us that evening. It was truly a pleasure.

Dinner at Tuna Grill Restaurant, General Santos City

The night was still young when dinner ended at around 10pm. Some decided to explore what the city had to offer. I joined those who went to get some coffee (decaf, of course) at Cafe Firenzo in Sun City Suites. Wake up call the following morning was still early so I just ordered a cup of hot chocolate.

Day 3 of the Soccsksargen Experience Tour 3 awaits!

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It was my first time to join a S3X Tour or better yet, the SOCCSKSARGEN EXPERIENCE earlier this month. This much anticipated event happened twice this year and I am a happy participant of its third installment.

The Soccsksargen EXperience is a 4-day event, an orgy of food, fun and adventure, spearheaded by brothers Bariles and GandaEverSoMuch. It features destinations, activities, and food all over South Central Mindanao. On its third installment, the group toured the provinces of Sarangani and South Cotabato, visited Koronadal City and General Santos City. All of these happened amidst the annual Tuna Festival at General Santos City, the tuna capital of the world.

Soccsksargen Experience September 2011 Participants Photo courtesy of Montage Digital Photography, Inc.

I had a wonderful and overwhelming experience. Not only did I gain new friends, I got to explore amazing places and got to try scary but exciting adventures!

Here are the highlights of my 1st day on the SEx Tour:

Organic breakfast at Cresing's

We left really early in the morning on the first day to travel to Maitum, Sarangani to have a healthy organic breakfast at Cresing's Food Products that is owned and managed by Ms. Beth Ramos. These are food that are grown or produced without any artificial chemicals such as fertilizers or pesticides. Our sumptuous breakfast was courtesy of Maitum Mayor Elsie Lucille Perrett.

I personally liked the bangsi or marinated flying fish and the salted egg. They also served us rice coffee made from organic upland brown rice. I enjoyed that and purchased some to take back home.

Bloggers meet Mayor Elsie Lucille Perrett of Sarangani Province

After breakfast, we went to the Municipality Hall of Sarangani Province to pay a courtesy call to its lovely Mayor Elsie Lucille Perrett. We were all thankful that regardless of her busy schedule, she was able to welcome us and took time out for some picture taking. We also got a quick tour at the Maitum Museum that was housed inside the municipality hall.

About to set this baby pawikan free at the Pawikan Nesting Sanctuary in Sarangani Province

Our next stop that morning was to the Pawikan Nesting Sanctuary, still in Maitum, Sarangani. We were given the opportunity to experience helping baby pawikans (sea turtles) reach the sea and hope for the best that they survive. It truly was a priceless moment.

The sanctuary is a project started by Danilo C. Dequina. It was formalized in 2003, after taking a seminar on turtle conservation under the Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR). He admits that he used to collect turtle eggs as a boy and their family would serve them for meals as they live near the sea shore. It was also a common practice in their neighborhood. Eventually, he learned that these green sea creatures are endangered species and decided to put up a hatchery to help save them.

Here's a short video capturing a thrilling moment of helping baby sea turtles reach the sea:

Lunch at IML Park in Maasim, Sarangani

We the proceeded to IML Ecopark in Maasim, Sarangani for lunch. The resort is owned by couple Mr. Jojo Lopez and Mrs. Haydee Lopez. It includes 2 swimming pools, one for adult and another for kids. They also offer a 580m zipline adventure. The highlight is perhaps the shooting range located at the right side of the resort. It will not be a surprise if this area becomes a site for practical shooting competitions in the future. Rooms are available for accommodations if you wish to enjoy a relaxing getaway. (Contact no. is 09489757710)

Our lunch was courtesy of Maasim Mayor Jose Zamorro.

White Water Tubing at Pangui River, Sarangani Province Photo courtesy of Micamyx

Lunch was followed by a white water tubing adventure at Pangui River. For a little (physically speaking) girl like myself who doesn't know how to swim, water adventures has always been a challenge. But I didn't want to miss the fun so I swallowed my fear and put on my bestfriend in the water -- a life vest.

The adventure is similar to white water rafting. But instead of a raft, each person is seated on what looks like large rubber tires. You will be accompanied by a guide or two, depending on your weight, that will be on your back on a separate vessel. Each "tube" has 2 rubber handles in front to hold on to and help you balance yourself as you battle the currents. Remember to keep your eyes open to avoid hitting rocks with your legs. I recommend wearing goggles and protective amphibian shoes for further protection.

White water tubing approximately costs Php120 ($3) and lasts for about 45 minutes.

After the adrenaline rush, we headed to Lemlunay Dive Resort to relax. I again faced my fear of the water and tried snorkeling for the first time ... with a life vest! The remaining time were spent relaxing at the infinity pool, overlooking the ocean.

Infantry Batallion Camp, Maasim, Sarangani Photo courtesy of Karen Ang

Before going home, we stopped by at 73rd Infantry Batallion Camp in Maasim, Sarangani, where we got oriented on how they were called the Army of Peace. After a brief presentation, soldiers took us for a tank ride around the camp to see how it was transformed to a tranquil tourist destination.

I asked our driver if the tank was an automatic or manual shift. He replied the former. I thought he would invite me to test drive the tank. Better luck next time!

Dinner at Meilih Restaurant, General Santos City

Finally, it was time to go back to General Santos City and enjoy dinner at Meilih Restaurant at Phela Grande Hotel. It is the only dining place in the city that offers shabu-shabu. The favorite among bloggers is the stuffed cookies with shrimp and quail eggs. No arguing with that. Thank you to Mr. & Mrs. Charles & Helen Angderson for our dinner.

By the time we all went back to our respective hotels, I was so exhausted I immediately dozed off after taking a shower. Wake up call the following morning is early and I needed to recharge for another fun-filled day! Can you imagine what's in store for the 2nd day of the Soccskscargen Experience? Stay tuned!