Iwahig Prison & Penal Farm

This unique “prison without bars” was established by the Americans in 1904. The inmates tend vast farms instead of idly spending time behind bars. The more enterprising earn by making handicrafts and other productive activities during their spare time. Iwahig has since become synonymous to finely handcrafted bags and other souvenir items.
The Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is one of the most popular prisons in the Philippines. It was established in 1902 by the United States for the Filipino prisoners who had fought with the American during their colonization in the Philippines. The Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is located at Baranggay Iwahig, Palawan and is 30 minute ride from the province’s capital, Puerto Princesa. Currently, it houses some 4,000 inmates.