Iwahig is a low-security open prison colony covering some 37,000 hectares of farmland south of Puerto Princesa. Inmates — known as colonists — grow rice, vegetables, and fruit, and are free to move around the colony without guards. Some have brought their families to live with them on the grounds. The arrangement is closer to a small farming community than a conventional prison.
Visitors are welcome. The colony operates a small market where inmates sell rattan handicrafts, woven goods, and fresh produce. There is also a souvenir shop and, oddly, a dance troupe — on weekends, a group of inmates performs traditional Filipino dances for tourists. It is cheerful and a little surreal.
The colony is about 23 km south of Puerto Princesa city, reachable by tricycle or jeepney. No formal admission fee, though donations are appreciated. Bring respectful curiosity and leave the photography of individual inmates to their discretion.