CJHDevco denies squatting claim

The Sobrepeña-led Camp John Hay Development Corp. (CJHDevco) and Warbird Security and Investigation Agency denied that they were “squatting” in the John Hay Special Economic Zone, as alleged by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

In a joint statement, the two firms belied BCDA claims that they were “illegally occupying” some 600  square meters of prime land by constructing three structures near the Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) No. 6.

Contrary to the BCDA’s claim, CJHDevco and Warbird said the practice of putting up temporary barracks or structures in strategic locations in a 247-hectare area being secured was a standard practice in the security industry.

To secure Camp John Hay’s Sewage Treatment Plan (STP) 6 and other nearby facilities, including the ‘Eco-Trail’ area, they said temporary security facilities were constructed in a 200-square-meter portion of Camp John Hay—not 600 sqm as alleged by BCDA president Arnel Paciano Casanova.

Security facilities were put in the area to avoid causing any damage to the STP and ensure the protection of those who walk through the “Eco-Trail,” they said.

CJHDevco said there were neither families nor roosters in these security facilities as claimed by the BCDA.

According to CJHDevco chief operating officer Alfredo R. Yniguez, BCDA only wants to take over the camp and that it is using the “illegal squatting” grounds to block the renewal of the business permit of security agency Warbird.

CJHDEvco, based on the firm’s statement, was able to secure a temporary restraining order (TRO) from a Baguio court against any “illegal takeover” by BCDA. As such, it said BCDA had resorted to “harassing Warbird,” the contracted security agency of CJHDEvco.

Still, CJHDevco was able to renew and obtain a business permit for Warbird directly from the Baguio City Hall.

Yniguez, however, said that since the BCDA had ordered CJHDevco to remove the security facilities of Warbird, which the agency had followed, BCDA must now ensure the security of the area for the protection of a major facility and the public.

Earlier, the BCDA said CJHDevCo had lease obligations of P3 billion.