Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm Tourism

The Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is located in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines. It’s a unique correctional facility that covers a 26,000-hectare land area, making it one of the largest open-air jails in the world. Established by the Americans in 1904, this penal farm stands out due to its non-conventional approach to rehabilitation. Unlike typical prisons, Iwahig allows its inmates to live in dormitory-style quarters and move around the farm freely, engaging in agricultural activities like farming, fishing, and forestry as part of their rehabilitation process. The prison is known for its minimum security; inmates are not confined to cells and there are no fences surrounding the facility. Families of the prisoners can even reside within the complex. The place has become a tourist spot, allowing visitors to interact with the inmates and purchase handicrafts made by them. Rehabilitation efforts focus on teaching the inmates various skills to prepare them for reintegration into society. Iwahig is also known for its beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and as a habitat for numerous wildlife species, contributing to its reputation as a thriving and rehabilitative environment.