BAGUIO CITY — Big things are coming for Le Monet Hotel. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has partnered with Stern Real Estate and Development Corp. for a P500-million expansion that promises to nearly double the hotel’s rooms and create around 100 new jobs for the city.

The 25-year lease gives Stern access to a 1,500-square-meter lot right next to the existing hotel along Ordonio Drive, inside the John Hay Special Economic Zone. The expansion will add at least 70 new rooms, aiming to elevate Le Monet to a 4- or 5-star property to welcome the growing number of visitors to Baguio.

BCDA president and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang said the project is a strong sign of continued private sector confidence in the redevelopment of Camp John Hay. “This aligns perfectly with our master plan to boost activities and facilities for both local and international tourists,” he noted.

For its part, Stern highlighted its long-term commitment to the region. “As one of BCDA’s longest-standing locators, we’re proud to expand Le Monet while upgrading all our properties to meet the high standards of the John Hay Special Economic Zone,” said Stern executive vice president Eric Owen G. Singson Jr., who also oversees the Filling Station food court on the estate.

The development will follow strict design guidelines to preserve the eco-tourism and commercial standards of the area, while construction and operations are expected to boost local livelihoods and increase tourism revenue — a win-win for both visitors and the Baguio community.