In a recent development in Baguio City, the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 3 has dismissed yet another legal challenge aimed at halting the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) from taking over a 247-hectare leased property within Camp John Hay. The court rejected the request for a temporary restraining order (TRO) brought forward by sub-lessees of the Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo), marking another victory for the BCDA in this ongoing dispute.
The decision to dismiss the petition was influenced by a Supreme Court ruling that mandated the return of the leased land, including all improvements, to the government via the BCDA. This ruling came after a previous denial by Baguio RTC Branch 79 of a similar application from another group of foreign nationals within Camp John Hay. According to Lailani Barlongay-Macasaet, BCDA’s vice president for public affairs, the court found that the petitioners, as sublessees of CJHDevCo, did not demonstrate a clear legal right to be exempt from the reinstated Writ of Execution and Notice to Vacate.
BCDA chairperson, lawyer Hilario Paredes, expressed appreciation for the Baguio RTC’s decision, emphasizing that it reinforces the government’s position and the need to adhere to the Supreme Court’s final ruling. Paredes hopes this will lead to constructive discussions with the claimants to address their concerns and find viable solutions.
The Supreme Court had previously invalidated a 2015 Court of Appeals decision that had nullified the Writ of Execution and Notice to Vacate related to Camp John Hay. In a resolution dated October 22, 2024, the Supreme Court also denied motions for reconsideration from CJHDevCo and other intervenors, solidifying the implementation of its decision.
To assist those affected by the property takeover, the BCDA has set up a help desk to address individual concerns and situations.