General Santos City and Koronadal City Marks the 81st Death Anniversary of General Paulino T. Santos

Local governments and civic groups across South Central Mindanao gathered today, August 29, 2026, to honor the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Major General Paulino T. Santos on his 81st death anniversary.

In General Santos City, the milestone was marked by the solemn, annual “Saludo Para kay Paulino” ceremony at Plaza Heneral Santos. The tribute was organized through a close partnership between the local government and The Pioneers-Descendants of General Santos City, Inc., led by its president, Mr. Francisco "Tito" Santos.

“Mula sa kanyang pangarap at sakripisyo, unti-unting umusbong ang General Santos City—isang lungsod na patuloy na lumalago, nagsusumikap, at nangangarap para sa bawat Heneral,”(From his dreams and sacrifices, General Santos City gradually emerged—a city that continues to grow, strive, and dream for every General,) City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao stated in an official release from Serbisyong Totoo: Tatak Pacquiao. “Saludo kami sa iyo, Heneral Paulino Santos. Ang iyong buhay at pamana ay mananatiling bahagi ng puso at kasaysayan ng General Santos City.”(We salute you, General Paulino Santos. Your life and legacy will remain part of the heart and history of General Santos City.)

The remembrance extended beyond the borders of his namesake city. In Koronadal City, local officials and residents under the leadership of City Mayor Erlinda P. Araquil also paid homage to the pioneering icon. A morning wreath-laying ceremony took place at the landmark Koronadal Roundabout, home to the prominent monument erected in his honor.

General Paulino Santos remains a monumental figure in Philippine history. Appointed as the founding administrator of the National Land Settlement Administration (NLSA) by President Manuel L. Quezon in 1939, his strategic leadership in managing land distribution and agricultural migration served as the structural catalyst for the economic development of South Central Mindanao.