Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

"+ “woust eu no. 364

Introduced by Rep. LORETO B. ACHARON

EXPLANATORY NOTE

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The “Kalilangan Festival”, also known as the “Cultural and Arts Festival” of the City of General Santos is a
celebration of the shared histories of the Lumads, Muslims and Christian or tri-people, specifically focused
on their established cooperation, unity and harmonious co-existence, appreciation, acknowledgement
and respect for each other's rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions.

kKalilangan Festival is celebrated every February in recognition as well of the historic arrival on February
27, 1939 of Major General Paulino Santos (RET), Philippine Army, who led the relocation of no less than
62 Christian settlers from Luzon to the shores of Sarangani Bay aboard the steamship “Basilan”. These 62
pioneers were the first batch of migrants who settled permanently and lived in harmony with the
indigenous inhabitants called “Blaans” and other ethnic groups.

This measure therefore seeks to institutionalize the “Kalilangan Festival” as the Official Cultural and Arts
Festival of the City of General Santos in commemoration of the historical beginnings and cultural roots of
‘our people so that succeeding generations are informed and accorded the opportunity to honor, give
credence and importance; and acknowledge in a noble and festive fashion the struggles, sacrifices, and
pioneering spirit of our predecessors.

In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.

LORETO 8. ACI


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

1. 507g 1384

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by Rep. LORETO B. ACHARON

AN ACT
DECLARING THE “KALILANGAN FESTIVAL” AS THE
OFFICIAL CULTURAL AND ARTS FESTIVAL
OF THE CITY OF GENERAL SANTOS

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. This Act shall be known as the “Kalilangan Festival Act”.

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote sustainable
tourism by preservation and conservation of the country’s rich cultural diversity as presented during
festivals and local celebrations. Towards this end, the State shall support efforts that pursue the
sustainability and strengthening of Filipino values and identities as we continue to develop the tourism
industry as a major source of livelihood and employment.

SEC. 3. Festival Declaration. The “Kalilangan Festival” is hereby declared the “Official Cultural
and Arts Festival” in the City of General Santos as the city’s contribution to the whole-of-nation approach
to preserve our rich and diverse cultural heritage, values and identities.

SEC. 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations. Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity of this
Act, the City Government of General Santos shall formulate and issue the necessary rules and regulations
for the effective implementation of this Act.

SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. All laws, executive orders, or issuances, or any part thereof inconsistent
herewith, are hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly.

SEC. 6. Effeetivity Clause. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following its publication in
the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

APPROVED.