Must-Try Foods In Iwahig Prison And Penal Farm (Puerto Princesa) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, Puerto Princesa, Philippines

Established during the American colonial period in 1904, the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is not just a correctional facility but also an agricultural and industrial farm. Over time, inmates have been engaging in farming activities, producing rice, corn, and an array of vegetables which have become a vital part of their diet. Additionally, fish farming is also conducted here. This self-sustainability approach has influenced the cuisine available within the prison community, leaning towards simple, nourishing, and freshly farmed ingredients.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm for Tourists

• Adobo (Non-Veg): A savory dish typically made with chicken or pork cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
• Sinigang (Non-Veg/Veg options): A sour soup made with either fish, shrimp, or pork, with an option to substitute with vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Pinakbet (Veg): A mixed vegetable stew flavored with shrimp paste (vegetarian versions can omit this).
• Laing (Veg): Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, usually with shrimp or fish, but can be made vegetarian.
• Pancit (Non-Veg/Veg): Stir-fried noodles that can be prepared with an assortment of meats or just vegetables.
• Bicol Express (Non-Veg): A spicy pork dish cooked in coconut milk, which can be adapted for vegetarians by replacing meat with tofu or more vegetables.
• Halo-Halo (Veg): A popular Filipino dessert that's a mix of shaved ice, milk, sweet beans, fruits, and purple yam.
• Kare-Kare (Non-Veg/Veg): A Filipino stew with a thick peanut sauce, typically cooked with oxtail but can also be made with just vegetables.
• Lumpia (Non-Veg/Veg): Filipino spring rolls that are either fresh or fried, filled with meat or vegetables.
• Bibingka (Veg): A type of rice cake that's usually eaten during breakfast or as a snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm with Famous Food

1. Bilao at Palayok Restaurant
   Address: North National Highway, Brgy. San Jose, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Kare-Kare (Non-Veg/Veg)
2. Ka Inato
   Address: Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Inato Chicken (Non-Veg)
3. Kalui Restaurant
   Address: 369 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)
4. Badjao Seafront Restaurant
   Address: Abueg Rd, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Grilled Fish (Non-Veg)
5. Viet Ville Restaurant
   Address: Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Vietnamese Pho (Non-Veg)
6. La Terrasse Café
   Address: Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Green Salad (Veg)
7. Sabie Bakes Café
   Address: Manalo Street, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Red Velvet Cake (Veg)
8. Heavenly Desserts by Dorothy
   Address: Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Mango Cheesecake (Veg)
9. Haim Chicken Inato
   Address: Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa
   Famous for: Chicken Inato (Non-Veg)
10. Tiki RestoBar
    Address: Lacao Street, Puerto Princesa
    Famous for: Crispy Pata (Non-Veg)

Note: The addresses and dishes provided serve as a general guide for visitors looking to explore the local cuisine. The food types indicated for each restaurant give an idea of the culinary options available for vegetarians and non-vegetarians. It's always advisable to check with the restaurants for their current menu offerings and to specify dietary preferences when ordering.