Sablayan: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has announced plans to establish an economic zone in Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental, aimed at boosting local development in the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sablayan, with its vast land area of 218,900 hectares, is the largest municipality in the Philippines. It houses the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, which spans 8,327 hectares and is home to 4,168 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). BuCor revealed that discussions are underway with the local government unit (LGU) of Sablayan to emulate the successful model of the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Palawan.

BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. highlighted Iwahig's achievements in eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture as a model for integrating correctional facilities with community development. He emphasized that if Sablayan adopts this model, it could revolutionize interactions between communities and correctional facilities, fostering a more productive and socially responsible approach to rehabilitation and development.

Sablayan's strategic location offers potential as a cruise ship access route to popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, such as Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan, and Antique. The proposed economic zone could become a pivotal hub for tourists visiting renowned sites like Coron, El Nido, Puerto Princesa, Amanpulo, and Cuyo, all reachable via Sablayan's waterways.

Mayor Walter Marquez of Sablayan referred to the municipality as the "sleeping giant," symbolizing its untapped resources and strategic location. He expressed optimism about the initiative, stating, "It's now time to wake up this sleeping giant."