(PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)
BAGUIO CITY — Business locators at Camp John Hay are being assured of continuity and long-term security following a string of legal victories by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, reinforcing government control over the former military reservation and clearing long-standing ownership issues.
BCDA Chairperson Larry Paredes said the favorable court rulings provide renewed confidence for investors and partners operating within the John Hay Special Economic Zone, describing them as a critical step toward stabilizing the business environment.
“This major legal victory provides long-term stability for investors and partners,” Paredes said in a statement.
The most recent ruling came from Regional Trial Court Branch 79 in Baguio City, which dismissed six cases filed by private claimants involving parcels within Camp John Hay. The cases included petitions for quieting of title, recovery of possession, and promissory estoppel, all of which challenged the government’s authority over the property.
According to Paredes, the court’s decision further strengthens the legal basis for BCDA’s assumption of control and management of Camp John Hay in January 2025, following a Supreme Court ruling that ordered the previous private developer to turn over the 240-hectare estate to the government.
The transition initially raised concerns among existing lessees, who were instructed to negotiate directly with BCDA as the authority began opening the area to new business locators. Questions over contract security and property rights lingered as redevelopment plans were being prepared.
Paredes said the recent rulings now clarify ownership and management issues, allowing BCDA to proceed with confidence in its revitalization program.
“BCDA is securing significant legal victories as it pushes the revitalization and modernization of Camp John Hay. With the legal framework now clear, we can move forward to unlock its full potential as a world-class mountain estate and a key growth driver in Northern Luzon,” he said.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang echoed the sentiment, noting that the legal clarity strengthens Camp John Hay’s position as a premier investment destination and supports long-term planning for the estate’s redevelopment.
Earlier, John Hay Management Corporation president Manjit Singh Reandi outlined development initiatives targeted for 2026, including the opening of the John Hay Museum, redevelopment of the Mile Hi Center, a cable car attraction, and the construction of a public sports facility.
“We have yet to roll out major projects, but the best is yet to come for Baguio, always with sustainability at the core,” Reandi said.