Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, Prison farm in Puerto Princesa, Philippines.
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is an open correctional facility in Puerto Princesa spread across more than 28,000 hectares of agricultural terrain. Inmates participate in farming, forestry, fishing and carpentry under minimal supervision.
The United States colonial administration founded this penal colony in 1904 to house Filipino prisoners of war. The concept of open detention combined with agricultural work was implemented from the beginning.
The facility allows inmates to cultivate their own plots and live alongside family members in designated areas. This approach to rehabilitation is visible in the craft workshops and market stalls where visitors can see finished products.
The site is reachable by tricycle or small van from Puerto Princesa city center, about 15 kilometers away. Visitors need to register at the entrance checkpoint before entering the grounds.
The compound has no walls or bars and allows inmates to move freely within its boundaries. This open arrangement leads to an unusually high rate of successful reintegration into society.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
