Former Baguio City mayor airs side on Camp John Hay Golf Club dispute

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Mauricio Domogan says he's concerned about the employees, caddies, and members of the Camp John Hay Golf Course

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Camp John Hay Golf Club saga continues to unfold as another member of the club has withdrawn his complaint against the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), leaving only two plaintiffs — former Baguio City mayor Mauricio Domogan and Federico Mandapat Jr. — pursuing the case.

Marciano Garcia, a longtime member of the club, filed a motion to withdraw his case before the Baguio Regional Trial Court. His decision comes after the majority of the ten complainants dropped their legal challenge earlier this month. 

Following Garcia’s withdrawal, BCDA immediately lifted the ban that had previously prevented him from playing at the Camp John Hay Golf Course.

“We are pleased that another golf club member is willing to support the transition to a new management in John Hay Golf,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang. “We urge the last two remaining plaintiffs to do the same and respect the government’s ownership of the golf course, as we work on improving John Hay Golf for the benefit of all.”

In a press conference held on Wednesday, January 15, Domogan addressed the ongoing dispute, emphasizing his concerns for the employees, caddies, and members of the club.

“What I am clamoring here is the employees and the caddies. The reason why we are banned is because we did not withdraw our names as plaintiffs in the said case,” Domogan said. 

He clarified that he does not oppose the BCDA’s implementation of the Supreme Court decision. “What I am standing for is please recognize the security of the members of the club.”

Domogan pointed out that the BCDA had initially consented to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-registered shares issued to club members, which are now being questioned. BCDA representatives offered a temporary arrangement allowing members to continue playing by paying P5,000 in monthly dues.

Domogan expressed concerns about its short-term nature.

“This is only during the interim, which is six months, renewable for a maximum period of six months. So I said, what will happen after the one-year period? We will again talk. If that’s the case, why can we not reduce that into writing?” Domogan said. 

He vowed to pursue the case, stating, “Even if I will remain as only one, I will continue this legal battle.”

The BCDA reiterated that it will not interfere with the affairs of the Camp John Hay Golf Club (CJHGC), respecting members’ rights to associate. However, BCDA chairperson Hilario Paredes underscored the need for mutual respect for the rule of law and government ownership of the golf course.

“We understand the club members’ predicament, and we fully sympathize with them. However, further litigating issues already fully raised with, and addressed by, the Supreme Court with finality is counterproductive,” Paredes said. “We will be able to do more for them by working together, instead of being divided and distracted by a rehashed case which excruciatingly attempts to revive a lost one.”

Paredes also extended an olive branch to Domogan and Mandapat, urging them to join the BCDA in advancing the development of Camp John Hay for the benefit of Baguio City and the golfing community.

The BCDA’s recovery of the 247-hectare Camp John Hay property, including the golf course, follows an October 2024 Supreme Court ruling that upheld an arbitral award voiding the lease of CJH Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) led by businessman Robert Sobrepeña. This has allowed BCDA to move forward with its plans to modernize and redevelop the estate.

Interim operations of the golf course are now handled by Golfplus Management Incorporated and DuckWorld PH, with a focus on improving facilities and ensuring the welfare of employees, staff, and caddies. “The improvement of John Hay Golf influences the local community in various ways, driving economic growth and creating jobs,” Bingcang said.

For inquiries on playtime, rates, and event reservations, patrons can contact DuckWorld PH at quack@duckworld.ph. – Rappler.com