The Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan is strengthening its campaign to become a local tourist destination, hoping to reshape public perception and highlight that persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) deserve second chances.
During the Palawan Regional Tourism Fair, IPPF introduced its facility as a “place of healing and hope,” aiming to counter the stigma attached to ex-convicts.
“Nakakalungkot na parang deprived na nga sila, tapos yung tingin pa, yung stigma sa kanila… ayaw nilang bigyan ng chance,” said IPPF Media and Public Affairs acting chief C01 Ma. Eden Larawan.
She noted that Iwahig, tagged as a “prison without walls,” has seen positive results in rehabilitation through tourism. “We saw that it was a really big help when it comes to reformation,” she added.
IPPF is the country’s only open penal facility, housing minimum-security PDLs. Larawan said they offer seven reformation programs — from education and sports to TESDA-led skills training and behavioral modification — all contributing to good conduct credits that can shorten sentences.
“We believe… nagkasala sila, nagkamali sila, pero there are second chances. We believe in second chances,” Larawan stressed.
Since being declared a heritage site in 2018, visitor numbers have surged. Tourists, students, and cruise passengers are welcomed by dancing PDLs and can buy items crafted inside the facility.
However, many visitors arrive with misconceptions. “Most of them… ang perception nila is nasa Iwahig yung mga most heinous crimes… So kami… [we are pushing for] awareness na [that’s not true],” Larawan said.
She added that engaging with visitors boosts PDL morale and encourages a more positive outlook. “Nagiging light yung kanilang morale… nagiging positive kasi may nakakausap sila,” she shared.
Iwahig is now included in Puerto Princesa’s official tourism packages. The facility continues to lobby for improved living conditions, including increasing the current P75 daily food budget and P75 monthly salary for PDL work.
IPPF recently developed Barrio Libertad, a small community for families of PDLs nearing release, with plans for expansion.
Established in 1904 and later converted into a prison and penal farm in 1972, Iwahig currently houses around 4,100 PDLs from across the country.