Colonial Penal De San Ramon: Images of the Oldest Existing National Penitentiary in the Philippines (Circa 1870)

Based on Wilhelm Dilthey’s (1833-1911) philosophical inquiry, the study explored the history of the Penal Farm as an Institution - it survived and its role in society amidst political and social pressures. As a historical narrative case study, it looked into the collective efforts in the establishment of the Penal Farm through a careful examination of historiography texts. The study provides basic elements in holding mounting exhibition such as intellectual element, conceptual element and practical element. The study aimed to make the people of Zamboanga fully aware of the preservation, conservation, and restoration of historical landmarks in Zamboanga. A significant finding of this research is the early historical development of San Ramon Penal Colony, reflected in the 1866 order issued by the Spanish government that is today the oldest existing national penitentiary in the country. The research highly recommends the conduct of exhibition for public viewing. The research data were taken/ verified from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), National Historical Institute (NHI), National Library of the Philippines (NLP), and the San Ramon Prisons and Penal Farm (SRPPF).

Key words - Colonia Penal, penitentiary, prisoners