GENERAL SANTOS CITY — To attract potential investors to the Soccsksargen region, the Department of Tourism (DOT) in the region conducted an investment forum on June 9 at the Diamond Hotel Manila.
The event was part of the ‘Treasures of SOX: A Travel and Trade Expo’ held from June 7-9 at the Midtown Atrium, Robinsons Place Manila.
According to DOT Regional Director Nelia Arina, the region has vast potential for both residency and business, and the team has been aggressive in attracting potential investors to the region.
They are organizing and participating in various tourism-related events throughout the country to raise awareness among tourists and investors about the potential of the Soccsksargen region, said the official.
Arina also hopes for an offshoot investment forum event from ‘Treasures of SOX’ that is bigger and expands internationally, as she highlighted the importance of sustainable investment with social and environmental impacts.
“By investing in sustainable tourism, we can create destinations that can thrive economically. That’s the goal we are striving for in our communities in Soccsksargen,” Arina conveyed.
“Thank you, as we have truly ignited the curiosity and desire to visit SOX. Knowing that you are interested in visiting our region is more than enough for us in SOX,” she added.
Meanwhile, Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar stated that “the investment forum is a great accompaniment for the high value, high return Treasures of SOX. The way to highlight the immense potential of the tourism sector is the key economic driver, especially for the resource field areas such as Soccksargen.”
In an effort to attract Islamic travelers, the government is also implementing a number of initiatives, with the goal of recognizing hotels and resorts as “Muslim-friendly accommodations” and eventually achieving Halal certification.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the region’s commitment to integrating the halal concept into its tourism infrastructure is a strategic move.
Reflecting on post-pandemic travel trends, she considers Soccsksargen an attractive destination for those seeking enriching, participatory, and culturally rich experiences.
She noted the DOT’s dedication to advancing the region’s food tourism, with an emphasis on diversifying its halal culinary options to appeal to Muslim tourists.
Local government units and private sector members from Soccsksargen participated in the investment forum, presenting various investment opportunities, tourism products, and businesses.
Val Solivio-Li, the CEO of Punta Isla Lake Resort from Lake Sebu, said that the investment forum is “a good platform to connect directly with investors.”
She added that it is “a great networking opportunity” with an assurance of a return on investment.
“I hope this event will bring more guests to SOX and inspire them to visit our region. The investment forum helps at least to erase the stigma of being unsafe that has been branded in Mindanao,” said Solivio-Li.
“I hope this event will bring more guests to SOX and inspire them to visit our region,” he further said, describing the investment forum, to at least help dispel the misconception that Mindanao is unsafe.
The local government of General Santos City was also able to present its investment opportunities.
Leonard Flores, the head of the City Economic Management and Cooperative Office (CEMCDO), represented LGU GenSan and showcased what the city can offer potential investors.
“We need this kind of activity. This platform provides an opportunity to speak to investors, venture capitalists, and the like,” he said as he urged everyone to seize the opportunity.
Flores also said that Soccsksargen has huge potential. It possesses vast resources that investors can examine and leverage. He highlighted that the region can be an “alternative investment destination,” especially for industry development and investment generation.
Sultan Kudarat Gov. Datu Pax Ali S. Mangudadatu graced the event, showing his support for the region’s tourism sector.
He presented key investment opportunities in the province and highlighted the stable peace and order situation.
Soccsksargen, or Region 12, is composed of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City.
The region’s strength lies in its agri-fishery industry, with General Santos serving as a hub for a major airport and seaport.
The tourism sector takes advantage of these opportunities by showcasing the rich and diverse culture of the region, complementing Soccsksargen’s strengths.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in Region 12 states that the “emerging new urban areas,” such as Midsayap and Kabacan towns in Cotabato province, Alabel and Glan in Sarangani, Surallah and Polomolok in South Cotabato, and Lebak and Isulan in Sultan Kudarat, are the focus of major developments.
Complementing these significant developments are the ongoing road expansions and the construction of essential infrastructure under the national government’s Build Better More program. (Genory Vanz Alfasain/DOT 12)
