The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has provided assistance to the Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) sub-lessees.
The agency said it is helping them explore legal remedies and new residential lease agreements with BCDA.
BCDA Chairperson Hilario B. Paredes reaffirmed BCDA’s commitment to ensure fair resolution for the sub-lessees 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.
Paredes urged the sub-lessees to pursue claims directly against the entities that sold the 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,” Paredes said.
He also encouraged all affected groups to promptly reach out to the BCDA to clarify their legal standing and explore available remedies.
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 legal remedies to mitigate their losses and safeguard their interests.
After years of legal battles, the Supreme Court in April 2024 overturned the 2015 Court of Appeals’s ruling that 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 it to vacate the leased premises, including the permanent improvements made, and turnover it to BCDA.
To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, BCDA said it has been working closely with the Sheriff's office and the affected CJHDevCo sub-lessees.
BCDA is also providing temporary hotel accommodation and translation services to affected foreigners.
The BCDA said it has signed over 40 new agreements with CJHDevCo sub-lessees for fresh lease terms in Forest Estates, Country Homes, Golf Estates, and Forest Cabins.
The agency also bared ongoing negotiations with other sublessees to come up with new lease terms for the residential units in Camp John Hay.