The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has put on the auction block the redevelopment of what used to be the iconic Mile Hi property in Camp John Hay, Baguio City, for a minimum bid of P205 million over a 25-year lease period.
Based on the terms of reference for the “Competitive Challenge for the Long-term Lease and Development of the Mile-HI Property within the John Hay Special Economic Zone”, BCDA will conduct a pre-bidding conference on May 19, 2025 after the publication of the Invitation to Bid on May 6, 8, and 10.
Deadline of submission of bid documents (eligibility and financial proposal) is slated at 12 noon of June 19, 2025, after which a preliminary opening of bids will be conducted. Detailed evaluation of bids will soon commence leading to board approval and announcement of bid results on June 24. The winning bidder and issuance of the Notice of Award (NOA) will be announced on July 23, 2025 and signing of lease contract to follow thirty days after the issuance of the NOA.
Redevelopment works of the 6,647-square meter property shall commence within 6 months from the approval of the development plan and project completion within a period of two years from the signing of the contract. At least 50 percent of the proposed development must be completed and partially open for commercial operations one year after contract signing, subject to actual ground verification.
The redevelopment should be consistent with the Comprehensive Integrated Master Development Plan (CIMDP) and accompanying Design and Standards and Guidelines for Camp John Hay and upon approval by the BCDA.
Based on the CIMDP, the Mile Hi property is to be developed as a world-class eco-tourism destination. The redevelopment should allot 30 percent of the property to open space and no structures exceeding three storeys in height.
The 25-year lease agreement allows for the restoration, renovation, and upgrading of the Mile Hi property into a modern commercial hub while preserving its historical essence and promoting environmental sustainability.
“This strategic redevelopment of Mile Hi underscores our commitment to unlocking the full potential of Camp John Hay. By attracting private sector investment and creating new commercial opportunities, we are not only enhancing the camp’s appeal as a premier destination but also generating employment and stimulating economic activity for the benefit of the community and the nation,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said.
The 25-year lease contract is renewable for a maximum period of twenty-five years upon the mutual agreement of BCDA and the Mile Hi operator.
The Mile Hi property, named for its unique elevation approximately one mile above sea level, holds a special place in Camp John Hay’s history.
Once a popular indoor recreation center featuring a bowling alley, billiard and ping-pong tables, arcade games, and a fondly remembered snack bar, the site is poised for a new chapter.
The main building of the Mile Hi that used to house retail stores and restaurants is now dilapidated and abandoned.
The redevelopment of the Mile Hi initiative is projected to attract an significant influx of tourists and further solidify Camp John Hay’s position as a leading leisure destination in the Philippines.
The Mile Hi project builds on the BCDA’s strong track record in Camp John Hay, where over Php1 billion in investments has been generated since the property’s recovery. The camp is experiencing a wave of private sector investment, with key players like Metro Pacific Investments Corporation subsidiary Landco Pacific Corporation managing The John Hay Hotels, as well as Golfplus Management Inc. and DuckWorld Philippines overseeing John Hay Golf. Furthermore, businesses such as Stern Real Estate Development, Amare La Cucina, and Top Taste Trading have also committed investments to the area.
