Geographic Features

2.1 Geographical Location

General Santos City lies at the Southern part of the Philippines. It is located between 1251’ and 12517’ East longitude and between 558’ and 620’ North latitude. The city is Southeast of Manila, Southeast of Cebu and Southwest of Davao. The municipalities of Alabel, Malungon and Maasim of Sarangani Province and the municipalities of Polomolok and T’boli of South Cotabato surround the city.

2.2 Political Subdivision

The City belongs to the First Congressional District of South Cotabato and is one of the 5 cities in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region (Region 12). Currently, the city has 26 barangays.

2.3 Land Area

The total land area of the City is 53,606 hectares.

2.4 Topography

Majority of the entire land area constitutes wide flat lands stretching northeast of the city and undulating terrain. Mt. Matutum, towards the North, towers at 2,293 meters above sea level. Mt. Parker, at the Southwestern part of South Cotabato, towers at 2,040 meters above sea level.

2.5 Mineral Deposits

Uncertain quantities of mineral deposits are present in the city. Such minerals are limestone, iron sand, sulfur, copper, gold, nitrate, luminate, rutile and guano. Abundant sand and gravel are being quarried at the Silway, Siguel and Buayan rivers.


2.6 Inland and Underground Waters

There are six sluggish rivers draining the city. There are also six creeks, three large cold springs and several minor springs that have potentials as sources of potable water. Underground water is usually shallow.