SOCCSKSARGEN

SOCCSKSARGEN

General Information
Name	SOCCSKSARGEN
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	Region
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC+8
DST	UTC

SOCCSKSARGEN is an administrative region in the Philippines, officially designated as Region XII. The name is an acronym that stands for the region's four provinces and one city: South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City.

Geography

SOCCSKSARGEN is located in the southern part of the island of Mindanao. It is bordered by the regions of Davao to the east, Northern Mindanao to the north, and the Bangsamoro to the west. The region is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes coastal areas, mountains, and fertile plains.

History

The region was created in 1975 as part of the reorganization of the administrative regions of the Philippines. It was originally part of the larger Region XI, which was later divided to form the current regions. The name SOCCSKSARGEN was adopted to reflect the major areas within the region.

Economy

SOCCSKSARGEN is known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in the production of pineapple, banana, and tuna. General Santos City is a major hub for tuna fishing and processing, earning it the nickname "Tuna Capital of the Philippines." The region also has a growing tourism industry, with attractions such as Lake Sebu and the Sarangani Bay.

Demographics

The population of SOCCSKSARGEN is diverse, with a mix of ethnic groups including the Ilonggo, Cebuano, Maguindanaon, and Blaan peoples. The region is predominantly Christian, with a significant Muslim minority.

Culture

The cultural heritage of SOCCSKSARGEN is rich and varied, with influences from indigenous traditions, Spanish colonization, and modern Filipino culture. Festivals such as the T'nalak Festival in South Cotabato and the Kalilangan Festival in General Santos City celebrate the region's cultural diversity.

Transportation

The region is accessible by air through the General Santos International Airport, and by sea through the Makar Wharf in General Santos City. A network of roads connects the provinces and cities within the region, facilitating trade and travel.

Also see

• Regions of the Philippines
• Mindanao
• General Santos City
• South Cotabato
• Cotabato
• Sultan Kudarat
• Sarangani