The biggest penal farm in the Philippines is the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm.
Located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is renowned not only for its vast land area but also for its unique approach to prisoner rehabilitation. It is one of the seven operating units under the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), an agency of the Department of Justice.
Overview of Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
Iwahig stands out due to its expansive territory and its open-colony system, which allows for more agricultural and vocational activities for inmates, preparing them for reintegration into society. Unlike traditional high-walled prisons, a significant portion of Iwahig operates on a minimum-security basis, promoting self-sufficiency and skills development among its population.
- Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan
- Administering Body: Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) under the Department of Justice
- Inmate Capacity: Currently houses approximately 4,000 inmates.
- Purpose: Primarily focused on the rehabilitation of prisoners through agricultural work and various vocational training programs, making it a "penal farm" rather than just a prison.
Unique Features and Rehabilitation Focus
Iwahig's design as a penal farm emphasizes its agricultural and industrial aspects, making it more than just a detention facility. Inmates participate in farming, fishing, and other vocational tasks, contributing to their upkeep and developing practical skills. This system aims to instill discipline, responsibility, and prepare them for a productive life after their release.
The penal farm is divided into sub-colonies based on the security level of inmates, ranging from minimum to maximum security, although the focus is heavily on the reformative aspects that the open-air environment provides. This vast land area facilitates diverse activities, including:
- Agricultural Production: Cultivation of rice, corn, vegetables, and fruit trees.
- Livestock Raising: Breeding of pigs, poultry, and other farm animals.
- Fishing: Utilizing nearby waters for aquaculture.
- Vocational Training: Skills development in carpentry, handicrafts, and other trades.
This approach aligns with the progressive ideals of correctional facilities, focusing on human development and social reintegration rather than mere incarceration. The substantial size of Iwahig allows for these extensive programs, cementing its status as the largest and a significant model for penal farms in the Philippines.
