More CJHDevCo sub-lessees give up cases against Camp John Hay recovery

BAGUIO CITY (February 11, 2025) -- The state-run Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) said more sub-lessees of CJH Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) have withdrawn their injunction applications that sought to stop the full recovery of the leased 247-hectare Camp John Hay property.

This, after a Baguio court earlier denied a similar application by other CJHDevCo sub-lessees.

Just on February 5, 2025, Branch 79 of the Baguio Regional Trial Court (RTC) denied the application of several foreign nationals, asking for a temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the return of the leased areas at the former American rest and recreation facility including improvements to the BCDA.

Following this favorable ruling for BCDA, another group of CJHDevCo sub-lessees, who had filed a similar TRO, has now withdrawn their application, said BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes. He added, “we understand the plight of those affected as they were deprived of their hard-earned money with false promises of owning homes and having lucrative investments.” 

Paredes however cited that blaming the government, which is simply following the final ruling of the Supreme Court, would be misdirected.  Instead, the BCDA chairperson said, “we encourage all stakeholders to reach out to us so we can help untangle all confusion and clarify uncertainties regarding their situation, and explore proper remedies under the law.” He encouraged all stakeholders not to be misled by statements repeatedly issued by other parties.

Paredes further emphasized that the Supreme Court, in its final ruling, reversed the Court of Appeals ruling and upheld the arbitral award, saying that the leased property, including all new constructions and permanent improvements, must be returned to the BCDA.

The Supreme Court likewise reinstated the Writ of Execution issued by Branch 6 of Baguio RTC and the Notice to Vacate issued by the court’s ex-officio sheriff insofar as persons claiming rights over improvements in Camp John Hay are concerned.

Paredes further stressed that the BCDA “reaffirms its pledge for a smooth and orderly transition in Camp John Hay,” reiterating, “all stakeholders affected during this period are encouraged to reach out to the BCDA to discuss reasonable concerns within the bounds of the law.”

A Help Desk has been instituted via email at cjhhelpdesk@bcda.gov.ph or phone via (+63) 962 534 9397 or (+63) 954 976 8295, the BCDA said.