BCDA provides assistance to CJHDevCo sub-lessees in Camp John Hay
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has intensified its efforts to provide assistance to the CJH Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) sub-lessees in Camp John Hay, Baguio City by helping them explore legal remedies and encouraging them to enter into new residential lease agreements with BCDA.
BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes reaffirmed BCDA’s commitment to ensuring fair resolution for the sub-lessees who are affected by the Supreme Court ruling, which upheld the Arbitral Award mandating the return of the 247-hectare Camp John Hay Property, including all new constructions and permanent improvements, to the BCDA. Atty. Paredes urged sub-lessees to pursue claims directly against the parties or entities that sold or assigned these units.
“We recognize the emotional, financial, and legal challenges faced by those affected by the Supreme Court ruling. BCDA’s goal is to help them navigate these issues and ensure that their rights are protected and exercised,” Atty. Paredes stated. He also encouraged all affected parties to promptly reach out to the BCDA to clarify their legal standing and explore available legal remedies.
As part of its assistance, BCDA has been providing CJHDevCo sub-lessees with clear explanations of the recent Supreme Court ruling and its legal implications on their leases. BCDA has also outlined potential legal remedies to mitigate their losses and safeguard their interests during this challenging time.
After years of legal battles, the Supreme Court in April 2024 overturned the 2015 Court of Appeals’ ruling that had invalidated the Writ of Execution and Notice to Vacate issued by the Baguio Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 6. This writ had mandated the Ex-Officio Sheriff of the Baguio RTC and her duly authorized deputies to demand CJHDevCo, and all persons claiming rights under CJHDevCo, to vacate the leased premises, including the permanent improvements introduced thereon, and turnover it to BCDA.
To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, BCDA has been working closely with the Sheriff’s office and the affected CJHDevCo sub-lessees.
Recognizing the diverse demographics within Camp John Hay and as part of its humanitarian support, BCDA is also providing temporary hotel accommodation to affected foreign nationals as well as translation services to ensure they are well informed and guided throughout the legal process.
In pursuit of finding a common ground and mutually beneficial resolution, the BCDA has signed over 40 new agreements with CJHDevCo sub-lessees for fresh lease terms in Forest Estates, Country Homes, Golf Estates, and Forest Cabins. Negotiations are also ongoing with other sublessees to come up with new lease terms for the residential units in Camp John Hay.
All those who are affected by the Supreme Court ruling are encouraged to reach out to the BCDA to discuss reasonable concerns within the bounds of the law. They may contact the BCDA Help Desk via email at cjhhelpdesk@bcda.gov.ph or phone via (+63) 962 534 9397 or (+63) 954 976 8295.
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