Attempt to block John Hay’s return to government foiled

BAGUIO CITY (January 5, 2025) – Fresh attempts to block the return of 247-hectare rented property by private developer CJH Development Corporation’s (CJH DevCo) at Camp John Hay’s Special Economic Zone to the government was foiled by a January 3, 2025 order by Branch 6 of the Baguio Regional Trial Court.

Earlier in December last year, the Supreme Court in a final resolution ensured the immediate recovery of the said property without exceptions, prompting all land and improvements in the property, whether directly held by CJH DevCo, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates or occupied/held by other individuals or parties claiming rights under them, must be turned over to the BCDA.

The Regional Trial Court’s order also directs its sheriffs to immediately and fully implement its reinstated writ of execution and notice to vacate, so the property can be returned to the BCDA. 

With this most recent development, BCDA assured the public that businesses will continue to operate in Camp John Hay, while it is also calling on all stakeholders to step forward, reach out to them, and work together for a smooth and orderly transition.

Earlier in December, even the Camp John Hay Leisure Incorporated, handling the operation of The Manor Camp John Hay, The Forest Lodge Camp John Hay and the CAP-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center, all locators inside the leased area, promised it had sought for a smooth transition for the leased area back to BCDA.

While the Camp John Hay golf club had said it is “business as usual” to them clearing out the final SC ruling upholding the 2015 arbitral decision to evict CJHDevCo has no effect on its operation.

The Golf Club “is not a mere sub-lessee of CJHDEvCo, but holds a direct and separate contractual agreement with the BCDA and is independent of the lease agreement between the (the two parties in that arbitral ruling),” CJH Golf Club general manager Judson D. Eustaquio pointed out in December just as the SC resolution came.