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BCDA CALLS FOR COOPERATION AS ANOTHER CJH GOLF CLUB MEMBER WITHDRAWS CASE

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has welcomed the decision of Engr. Marciano L. Garcia, a member of the Camp John Hay Golf Club (CJHGC), to withdraw his legal case against the state-run agency. BCDA has urged the remaining plaintiffs to follow suit and collaborate with the government in enhancing the Camp John Hay golf course, aiming to solidify its position as one of the premier golf courses in the country.

Engr. Garcia submitted a motion to withdraw his case before the Baguio Regional Trial Court, following the decision of other CJHGC members to drop their legal claims and work in partnership with BCDA and the interim management of the golf course. As a result, BCDA has lifted the ban that had previously prohibited Engr. Garcia from playing at the course.

“We are pleased that another golf club member has decided to support the transition to new management at John Hay Golf. We encourage the last two plaintiffs to do the same and respect the government’s ownership of the golf course, as we continue working to improve it for the benefit of all,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang.

The BCDA reiterates that while it has gained possession of the golf course under the Arbitral Award, it will not interfere with CJHGC’s internal affairs. “The members of CJHGC can freely exercise their rights to associate, and BCDA respects that. In return, we expect CJHGC and its members to respect the rule of law and the government’s ownership of John Hay Golf,” explained BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes.

Atty. Paredes further emphasized that BCDA remains open to dialogue and continues to extend an olive branch to address the concerns of CJHGC members.

“We understand the predicament of club members and fully sympathize with them. We are doing everything we can to mitigate the impact of the Arbitral Award. However, continuing litigation on matters already resolved by the Supreme Court serves no one’s best interest. We believe we can achieve more by working together, rather than being distracted by a case that has already been conclusively decided. We encourage Messrs. Domogan and Mandapat to join us in this higher pursuit of serving others,” Atty. Paredes added.

BCDA regained control of Camp John Hay, including the golf course, in accordance with a Supreme Court ruling on October 22, 2024, which allowed the agency to reclaim the 247-hectare property. Following the implementation of the writ of execution and notice to vacate by the court sheriff on January 6, 2024, the management of John Hay Golf was transferred to a new consortium.

The new consortium, led by Golfplus Management, Inc. (operators of the driving ranges in Nuvali and Alviera), along with DuckWorld PH, a sports management and marketing agency, has been appointed to manage the golf estate facilities for the interim period.

BCDA and the consortium are committed to ensuring the welfare of employees, staff, and caddies affected by the management change. They also plan to introduce improvements to the golf course to offer top-tier services and facilities for both new and existing players.

“The improvements to John Hay Golf will have far-reaching effects, not only for golfers but also for the local community. The upgrades will drive economic growth, create jobs, and benefit small-scale businesses, such as local shops and restaurants in Baguio and surrounding areas,” noted Engr. Bingcang.

For inquiries on playtime, rates, and event reservations, interested parties may contact quack@duckworld.ph.

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