Baguio City: Monday’s turnover of the 240-hectare leased areas of Camp John Hay to the government did not encounter hitches. The Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) has gained control of different facilities following a Supreme Court decision in October 2024 that ordered the private developer, Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo), to turn over management of the leased property.

According to Philippines News Agency, Leilani Macasaet, BCDA vice president for public affairs, said in a statement that they have gained control of The Manor, Forest Lodge, golf club, CAP Convention Center, Commander’s Cottage, open spaces and other areas. “BCDA assures the public that businesses will continue to operate and thrive in Camp John Hay,” she said.

All gates going inside the Camp John Hay facilities were closed on Monday prior to the takeover, but were opened to the public around 11 a.m. Col. Ruel Tagel, Baguio City Police Office Director, said in a phone interview that officers were deployed during the process upon request. “The notice was orderly and there was no untoward incident that happened in the implementation of the court’s order,” he said.

The John Hay Leisure, which operates The Manor, Forest Lodge and Cap Convention Center, said they support the transition but called for the protection of their more than 400 direct employees and contractors. CJH Golf Club, for its part, said it also wants its more than 1,000 members protected.