On 31 March 2025, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to formally secure the land boundaries of the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan. The agreement was signed by BuCor DIRECTOR GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret.) CESE, CCLH and DENR MIMAROPA OIC–Regional Executive Director FELIX S. MIRASOL, JR. CESO IV in a ceremony held in the BuCor National Headquarters, Poblacion, Muntinlupa City.
The agreement aims to establish clear land boundaries for the IPPF, covering 29,385.30 hectares, and to ensure the proper classification and management of the property. This initiative will facilitate future projects, including prison expansion, industrial and agricultural development, and tourism programs, while preventing land disputes and unauthorized use.
Under the agreement, DENR will conduct an actual ground delineation survey to validate land cover, vegetation, slope, elevation, and land classification. The agency will also prepare recommendations for the issuance of a Presidential Proclamation or Special Patent to officially recognize BuCor’s land ownership.
Meanwhile, BuCor will be responsible for securing and submitting all necessary land-related documents, such as titles, tax declarations, and clearances. The Bureau will also provide funding for expenses related to the survey and documentation process.
The MOA is set to take effect immediately and will remain in force until the Presidential Proclamation or Special Patent is issued. This agreement is expected to bolster BuCor’s long-term land management strategy, securing its assets for correctional and community development initiatives.
The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from BuCor and DENR. This latest collaboration highlights the commitment of both agencies to uphold the rule of law in land administration while supporting BuCor’s mandate of safekeeping and reforming Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).
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