BCDA responds: ‘Let’s just play and have fun!’

BAGUIO, Philippines – The long-running dispute over Camp John Hay continues, as organized golfers issued a statement denying accusations of sabotage by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) following a recent management turnover.

Utility disruptions on January 7 sparked the controversy, with the BCDA accusing the Camp John Hay Golf Club Incorporated (CJHGCI) of intentionally cutting water and power to disrupt operations. 

In response, CJHGCI said the interruptions were caused by confusion over who would cover utility costs after the Camp John Hay turnover. The group said its engineering team temporarily halted services until BCDA confirmed it would pay for utilities starting January 6. 

The golf club said the utilities were restored as soon as the issue was clarified.

The dispute traces back to a 2015 arbitral decision, upheld by the Supreme Court in October 2024. The ruling voided the CJH Development Corporation’s lease agreement with BCDA, citing breaches by both parties. 

The arbitral tribunal ordered BCDA to take control of Camp John Hay, including its golf course, while requiring reimbursement of P1.42 billion in paid rentals to CJHDevCo.

With the SC’s decision final, a January 6 writ of execution led to the formal handover of Camp John Hay to BCDA.

In a statement, the CJHGCI said it has followed the SC’s decision and the January 6 notice to vacate.

The CJHGCI said it has officially turned over the property to BCDA and its interim management team, John Hay Golf, which includes GolfPlus Management Incorporated and DuckWorld PH.

However, CJHGCI pointed out that its movable assets such as golf carts, turf equipment, and furnishings were not part of the turnover.

CJHGCI said such assets, owned by the club and its members, were secured to prevent loss or damage. 

The club also stressed that members’ rights are protected under Securities and Exchange Commission-approved membership certificates, valid until 2047, which the BCDA allegedly refused to acknowledge.

“Movable assets were not part of the turnover,” CJHGCI stated, reiterating its willingness to include them in a formal agreement if BCDA recognizes the rights and privileges of club members. 

It cited BCDA’s public advisories, which dismissed the membership rights as “rescinded by legal resolution,” saying this has undermined trust and worsened the transition.

CJHGCI said it was committed to protecting its members’ rights and supporting workers. 

The group said it also paid workers’ salaries on January 15, despite the “hostile nature” of the BCDA-led takeover. 

“For over two decades, the Club has been a cornerstone of excellence,” the CJHGCI statement read. “Membership certificates approved by the SEC cannot be unilaterally rescinded without due process and SEC approval.”

CJHGCI also responded to BCDA’s criticism of stakeholders like former Baguio mayor Mauricio Domogan and lawyer Federico Mandapat Jr., both of whom have been outspoken in defending the rights of the golf club members. The club accused BCDA of hostility toward those advocating for fairness and transparency.

“Mayor Domogan and Atty. Mandapat have consistently defended the rights of members as recognized by the SEC and enshrined in CJHGCI’s by-laws,” CJHGCI said.

In an open letter released Thursday, January 23, the BCDA clarified its stance on the membership status and rights of Camp John Hay Golf Club members.

The BCDA emphasized its non-interference in members’ rights to association while urging respect for BCDA’s ownership of the golf course.

Assuring the continuation of normal operations, the BCDA encouraged members: “Let’s just play and have fun!” – Rappler.com