Officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) joined the kick-off program of a pioneering initiative by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to establish the country’s first Agricultural Camp Facility for children in conflict with the law (CICL), located at the Inagawan Sub-Colony of the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
The groundbreaking ceremony held recently was headed by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian together with DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang, and Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council Executive Director Atty. Tricia Claire Oco, highlighting the project’s mission in supporting and uplifting the lives of CICLs.
Also present during the ceremony were DPWH Undersecretaries Roberto Bernardo and Eric Ayapana, Regional Office IV-B Mimaropa Director Gerald Pacanan, Bureau of Maintenance Director Gene Ryan Altea, local government leaders of Palawan headed by Governor Victorino Dennis Socrates and Congressman Jose Alvarez, and other officials from DSWD, Department of Justice (DOJ) Court of Appeals, and Commission on Human Rights (CHR).
In his message, Bonoan reaffirmed DPWH’s strong commitment to the project under its convergence program with the DSWD.
The public works chief emphasized the Department’s resolve to complete Phase 1 of the Agricamp Facility by the last quarter of 2025, with the DPWH MIMAROPA Regional Office led by Pacanan, serving as the implementing office.
“You can count on us to complete this significant project efficiently and on time.”
“You can count on us to complete this significant project efficiently and on time,” the public works head said.
Phase 1 of the project will feature four (4) one-storey housing units, two (2) multi-purpose buildings, two (2) open courts and an administration building equipped with basic utilities such as water and electricity.
“Our work is fueled by our heartfelt dedication to the Filipino youth, who represent the hope and promise of our beloved nation,” Bonoan added.
It is designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment for CICLs, incorporating agricultural and vocational training.
Covering 10 hectares, the Agricamp is a flagship initiative under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” program. It is designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment for CICLs, incorporating agricultural and vocational training, as well as psychosocial support to aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act with a budget of P90 million, the Agricamp Facility is envisioned to become a transformative space that empowers and nurtures CICLs, equipping them with the skills and values they need for a better future.
