BAGUIO CITY – The management of Camp John Hay Leisure Incorporated is optimistic about a smooth transition of the leased area’s management back to the Bases Conversion and Development Corporation (BCDA), emphasizing the protection of over 400 employees. Ramon Cabrera, the general manager of Leisure Hotel Corporation, which oversees The Manor, The Forest Lodge, and the CAP-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center within the 240-hectare government-owned area, expressed this hope during a press conference at Camp John Hay.
Cabrera stressed the importance of a trouble-free handover, noting that the corporation aims to maintain operations without disruption. This comes after the Supreme Court’s final ruling in October, mandating CJH Development Corporation to relinquish control of the leased premises to the government.
BCDA President Joshua Bingcang has shown readiness to negotiate with all stakeholders within the former U.S. military rest and recreation facility, aiming to facilitate a smooth transition following the court’s decision. Approximately 3,000 individuals are employed across various businesses within Camp John Hay.
Cabrera also highlighted the situation of the Manor Hotel and Forest Lodge, which are owned by individuals not directly addressed in the court’s decision. These properties are managed by 208 and 189 unit owners respectively, who have individual contracts with the management corporation, set to expire in 2025. Cabrera hopes that these owners’ rights will be respected during the transition.
Reports indicate that BCDA has already entered into an agreement with Le Monet, another business within John Hay, and Cabrera expressed a desire for similar arrangements for his corporation. Atty. Federico Mandapat Jr., counsel for Leisure Hotel, mentioned ongoing discussions between CJHDevCo and BCDA to ensure a seamless transition.