Preserving the People Behind the City's Story
GENERAL SANTOS CITY - Cities are often remembered through landmarks, streets, buildings, and public spaces, but the people who guided their development are equally important. Founding Mayors Park was originally designated to honor former General Santos City mayors Pedro A. Acharon Sr., Jorge P. Royeca, and Irineo L. Santiago. The city's 2013 ordinance provided for statues of the three former mayors and envisioned the park as a space that could also accommodate visitors and photography. The 2026 procurement now includes the fabrication of four statues, expanding the physical representation planned for the park.
A Public Space With More Than One Purpose
A well-designed park can become part of everyday city life while quietly preserving local heritage. Residents can use public spaces for walking, relaxation, community activities, and gatherings, while historical features give those places a deeper identity. Founding Mayors Park sits near the General Santos City Public Market and other established parts of the urban area, giving it a potentially visible role within the city's public landscape. Its completion could therefore combine ordinary recreational use with opportunities for residents and visitors to learn more about the people and events associated with General Santos City's development.
Turning Local Heritage Into a Living Landmark
Heritage becomes more meaningful when it is accessible to the public rather than confined to documents and archives. A physical landmark can encourage younger generations to become curious about how their city developed and why particular leaders and places matter. The 2026 procurement record shows that the city is moving through the formal process of completing the park, with a purchase order prepared in July and a project package covering statue fabrication. While the project record does not guarantee a specific completion date or future visitor program, the investment creates an opportunity for the park to become a recognizable civic landmark in General Santos City.
