Inmates working at the rice fields inside Iwahig Penal Farm. - PDI/ANN
PUERTO PRINCESA: Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan, Philippines has started revitalising its agricultural production by expanding rice fields, livestock production and fisheries.
In 2024, IPPF generated P5 million (US$0.087 million) from rice production alone.
"We have other crops as well, plus tilapia, and we also earn from livestock," Superintendent Gary Garcia of IPPF said.
He said they started with 60 hectares of rice fields in 2024. This year, Garcia said, they have increased it to 100 hectares.
Iwahig made sure that IPPF’s produce is integrated into the Kadiwa marketing system as well as other alternative avenues for distribution.
An appraisal committee was also formed to assess pricing strategies, ensuring farm products could be efficiently disposed of at fair market rates.
IPPF is also enhancing the production of high-value crops such as corn. At least 30 hectares are allotted for cashew, aquaculture products such as tilapia, and poultry products, specifically Parawakan, a kind of native chicken found in Palawan. IPPF also has 189 cattle, several buffalos, and goats.
Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. said the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority has been helping the inmates enhance their agro-related skills.
We want to make sure once they are released, they can have a second chance,” Catapang said. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
