The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has shown its support to a group of Koreans who sued businessman Robert John Sobrepeña and his firm, Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo), regarding their lease agreements on properties within Camp John Hay, Baguio City.

In information sent to the DAILY TRIBUNE by a source, it said that in the case filed at the Baguio City Regional Trial Court, the Koreans (plaintiffs) sought an award of actual or compensatory damages arising from defendant CJHDevCo’s acts of unauthorized conveyance, material misrepresentation, breach of warranties, and failure to disclose material facts—acts that constitute actionable civil wrongs that directly caused monetary harm to the plaintiff.

“Under Article 2199 of the Civil Code of the Philippines: Except as provided by law or by stipulation, one is entitled to an adequate compensation only for such pecuniary loss suffered by him as he has duly proved. Accordingly, as a direct consequence of the Defendant CJH DevCo’s unlawful acts and omissions, plaintiff has suffered grave and measurable injury, entitling her to the recovery of damages under the law,” the premise of the case reads.

It also stated that in the present case, the plaintiff can establish actual monetary loss in the form of the purchase price paid for the leasehold rights over the subject units.

“This financial outlay constitutes a direct and quantifiable injury for which the defendant must be held liable,” the charge sheet further stated.

Around 40 Korean retirees were affected by the recent takeover of the former leased areas of the BCDA at Camp John Hay, including the hotels there.

The aggrieved Koreans, some aged 70s and 80s, have invested in and bought condotels in the Manor Hotel and Forest Lodge, and have resided there since 2014.

With this, the BCDA said it takes the concerns raised by affected members of the Korean community seriously and affirms its commitment to a transition process that is lawful, transparent, and compassionate.

“In coordination with relevant government agencies, BCDA continues to extend assistance to all stakeholders, including foreign retirees. This includes translation support and one-on-one consultations to help clarify their options through mutually beneficial and law-compliant lease arrangements,” the BCDA statement said.

Further, the BCDA, headed by Engr. Joshua Bingcang, said it respects the decision of affected individuals to seek redress through the courts and welcomes the opportunity for the issues to be reviewed by the appropriate legal authorities.

“BCDA reiterates its position that valid lease agreements will be honored, provided they comply with Philippine laws and the final and executory decision of the Supreme Court. For further support, affected parties are encouraged to contact the BCDA Help Desk via cjhhelpdesk@bcda.gov.ph or (+63) 962 534 9397 / ‪(+63) 954 976 8295,” according to the BCDA.