Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. disclosed on Friday that they are preparing to transform a Palawan property into a food and tourism hub soon.

Catapang made this announcement during an afternoon interview on the sidelines of the Asian Regional Correction Conference (ARCC) held in Puerto Princesa.

"There is domestic demand in the area for rice, corn, and cattle products, so we are preparing the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to be the workers," said Catapang.

The vision for Palawan is to transform Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) into a secure, modern, and sustainable development hub.

Catapang said the IPPF covers 28,328.64 hectares, divided into four colonies: Central Palawan, Montible Palawan, Sta. Lucia Palawan, and Inagawan Palawan, each serving different rehabilitation and agricultural functions.

He added that the facilities follow a unique correctional model that allows PDLs to engage in farming, vocational work, and community-based activities.

The vast land area offers significant opportunities for sustainable development, balancing correctional reform with economic and ecological advancements.

Catapang emphasized that the modernization of Iwahig aims to transform it into a model for progressive rehabilitation while unlocking investment potential for eco-tourism and institutional expansion.

Meanwhile, Catapang mentioned that he was invited to present the food security masterplan to the foreign delegates.

He noted that the area has great potential, and they are also considering building an airport.

"We have to leverage your assets to replicate development in Metro Manila. We don't want to compete, but we want this area to be a robust one for the food supply chain and an aqua- and agri-products hub," Catapang said.

He also revealed plans to acquire a cargo plane and multi-role ship to transport products to Batangas.

"The DBM has already approved the proposal to buy a plane worth P1B and a boat for P3B," said Catapang.