The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is set to receive an initial 2,000 hectares of the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Palawan early next year for its conversion into an economic zone. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant collaboration between PEZA and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) to transform underutilized lands into hubs for investment and economic opportunities.
A Partnership for Progress
The conversion project stems from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between PEZA and BuCor. This agreement paved the way for due diligence in developing ecozones within BuCor properties, starting with the sprawling Iwahig site.
BuCor is providing PEZA with topography and geohazard maps, as well as verified survey reports, to ensure the project’s smooth implementation. PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga shared that a formal memorandum of agreement (MoA) and usufructuary agreement are expected to be finalized by early 2025, making the transfer official.
The Vision for Iwahig
The initial 2,000 hectares are just the beginning of what could be a transformative venture for Palawan. The Iwahig Penal Farm encompasses a total of 25,000 hectares, presenting vast opportunities for ecozone development. These ecozones will serve as investment hubs designed to attract businesses and create jobs while spurring economic growth in rural areas.
PEZA plans to turn these areas into “megazones,” large-scale economic zones designed to cater to industries ranging from manufacturing to technology. Before inviting locators, the project will require a Presidential proclamation, a necessary step to formalize the area as an economic zone.
Beyond Iwahig: A Nationwide Strategy
The Iwahig project is part of a broader PEZA initiative to repurpose idle lands across the country. BuCor has identified 32,300 hectares of underutilized land in its portfolio, including:
- Sablayan, Mindoro: 7,000 hectares
- National Penitentiary, Muntinlupa City: 300 hectares
PEZA’s goal is to shift ecozone development to rural regions, tapping into untapped growth potential in areas like Calabarzon, Region 3, Cebu, and Mindanao.
Ecozones Under the Marcos Administration
The current administration has already proclaimed 27 ecozones, facilitating investments worth ₱9.715 billion. PEZA is targeting 30 new ecozone proclamations in 2025, nearly doubling the 16 proclamations made this year, which brought in ₱5.637 billion in investments.
What It Means for Palawan
For Palawan, this development is a golden opportunity. The island province, known for its pristine natural beauty, is set to become a hotspot for economic activity. Ecozone development in Iwahig can boost infrastructure, provide employment, and foster industries that complement the region’s environmental and cultural heritage.
This project is more than a reimagining of a penal colony—it’s a vision for sustainable progress, blending economic development with the preservation of Palawan’s unique charm.
The Road Ahead
While the initial steps are promising, much work remains to ensure the successful transformation of Iwahig. From obtaining Presidential approval to attracting investors, the journey will require strategic planning and collaborative effort.
The conversion of Iwahig is not just about economic zones—it’s about creating a future where development uplifts communities while respecting their history and environment. Palawan, prepare for an exciting new chapter.
