In Puerto Prinsesa on the island of Palawan stands the unique Iwahig prison. This prison is special because it has no walls around it, yet almost no one ever ‘escapes’. The prison and the land around it cover an area that is approximately twice the size of Paris, and nearly 3000 prisoners work and live here together as if it were a large village. As a tourist, you can simply walk into this prison and see what it’s like to live here. There’s always a prisoner who can tell you something about their life here.
The unique system of Iwahig
If you commit a serious crime in the Philippines, such as murder, you’ll probably end up in Manila prison for the first few years. After demonstrating good behavior for a number of years, you may be transferred to the Iwahig prison in Palawan. Here, they operate with three sections: maximum, medium, and minimum security. Which section you’re in depends on your behavior and how many years of sentence you have left. Each section has a different level of freedom within the prison. Medium and minimum-security prisoners are not locked up and work in the rice fields within the prison for several days. During their free time, they are actually free to do what they want within the territory of Iwahig. The prison just looks like a quiet village with an incredibly beautiful environment. The prisoners don’t run away because the chances are high that they won’t get far. If they were to be caught, they would receive additional years of imprisonment and have to return to the maximum-security section, without freedom. This is also the reason why there are hardly any incidents of violence or theft. People are happy with the freedom they have and don’t want to jeopardize it.
What to expect during a visit
If you find it interesting to visit the Iwahig prison, you can simply walk in without any registration. There are two things you should visit. The first is the farm where the prisoners work, and the second is the recreation area. Especially the latter is incredibly interesting because the prisoners here have time to talk to you or play badminton. You’ll hear stories that are often very touching, and although most men look quite rough, they’re actually very kind. They’re really happy to have you visit. They enjoy teaching you important life lessons about the value of family and how people can truly change. Additionally, they love dancing, rapping, and singing, so you can definitely expect a performance.
Update: Visiting the Iwahig prison has become somewhat more touristy lately. It’s still a real prison, but you might not be the only one visiting on that day.
Things to keep in mind
If you plan to go, don’t arrive empty-handed; buy some snacks beforehand to share during a chat. They’ll be really happy with this because they often don’t have money for such things. While they earn food for the week by working on the farm, it’s nothing special. Additionally, as a woman, it’s appropriate to dress somewhat modestly. There will also be prisoners who give you a tour of the area and ask for some money at the end. So, don’t come with an empty wallet; make sure you have some 100 Pesos bills with you. Although they’re not officially allowed to have a phone, sometimes they do. After your visit, you’ll definitely have a few special new friends on Facebook and an experience you’ll never forget.
Hotel Tips in Puerto Princesa
Looking for stylish and luxurious accommodation at a reasonable price? Then you’re in the right place at Summer Days. You’ll stay in a spacious room and enjoy a lovely breakfast served in a beautiful garden in the morning. The owners are incredibly friendly and helpful. If you’re looking for even more luxury, Hue Hotels is perfect. You’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay in this new hotel. Large, beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, and delicious breakfast. The rooftop pool adds the finishing touch!
  Summer Days |
  Hue Hotels |
