In a recent development, the Regional Trial Court in Baguio City has dismissed yet another legal challenge against the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) concerning the government’s takeover of a 247-hectare property within Camp John Hay. The court rejected a request for a temporary restraining order from sub-lessees of the Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo), following a Supreme Court ruling that mandated the return of the leased land and its improvements to the government.
This decision marks the second time a Baguio court has denied such a request, with an earlier application from a different group of foreign nationals also being turned down. According to Lailani Barlongay-Macasaet, BCDA’s vice president for public affairs, the petitioners, who were sublessees of CJHDevCo, failed to demonstrate a clear legal right to be exempt from the enforcement of the reinstated Writ of Execution and Notice to Vacate.
BCDA chairperson, lawyer Hilario Paredes, praised the court’s decision, emphasizing that it upholds the rule of law and the government’s rights over Camp John Hay. He expressed hope that this ruling would pave the way for constructive discussions with the claimants to address their concerns.
The Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate a 2015 Court of Appeals ruling and its subsequent denial of motions for reconsideration have solidified the government’s position. The BCDA has set up a help desk to assist individuals affected by the property takeover, aiming to address their specific situations.