BAGUIO CITY — The John Hay Management Corp. (JHMC) announced the temporary closure of the popular Scout Hill playground beginning 20 January for rehabilitation and the installation of new equipment.

The closure, which will remain in effect until further notice, is intended to modernize the area and enhance safety standards for families and tourists, according to a public advisory.

This comes as the management addresses safety concerns across the former military base. In a recent media briefing, JHMC president and CEO Marlo Ignacio “Mangjit” Singh Reandi assured the public that the camp remains safe for visitors and workers despite a recent tragedy.

“Camp John Hay is 100 percent safe. We are saddened by the accident, but this is an isolated incident,” Reandi said.

He was referring to an accident on 16 January, when an electric vehicle used to ferry visitors and staff struck four people. One person died and three others were injured.

Reandi said the operation of all electric vehicles within the camp was suspended immediately following the incident.