JHMC, Rebel Bakehouse Ink Lease Agreement for Bell House Library Café

The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) and Rogue Food and Beverages Inc., operating under the brand Rebel Bakehouse, formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 28, 2025, for the lease of the Bell House Library located within the Camp John Hay Historical Core.

The agreement grants Rebel Bakehouse a 12-month lease to operate a café within the heritage site, to enhance the visitor experience through curated food and beverage offerings, some of which will be exclusively available at the Camp John Hay branch.

JHMC President and Chief Executive Officer Manjit Singh Reandi and Rebel Bakehouse President Yvette Danica M. Santos led the ceremonial signing, which was witnessed by Donna Jane G. Aldana, Corporate Secretary of Rebel Bakehouse, and Rachelle Anne N. Montoya, JHMC Business Development Manager, as well as members of the JHMC staff.

Under the terms of the agreement, Rebel Bakehouse shall ensure full compliance with all existing and future national environmental, health, and sanitation laws, as well as the specific regulations implemented by JHMC and other relevant authorities within Camp John Hay. The lessee is also mandated to dispose of all garbage, waste, and pollutants in accordance with applicable rules and standards, as environmental stewardship is one of JHMC’s core mandates.

“This collaboration with Rebel Bakehouse reflects our enduring commitment to responsible stewardship and adaptive revitalization of heritage spaces,” said Singh Reandi. “By welcoming enterprises that align with our values, we continue to preserve the legacy of Camp John Hay, and we also cultivate community-driven economic growth.”

Santos expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “This is truly a dream come true. I have vivid memories of playing at the Scout Hill grounds as a child, and to now be part of this historic site through Rebel Bakehouse is deeply meaningful. We are honored to uphold the environmental and cultural standards set by JHMC, and we look forward to serving the community in a space that inspires both reflection and connection.”

While enjoying freshly brewed coffee and artisanal breads, visitors and patrons may also explore the historical features housed within the Bell House Library. A remnant of American colonial architecture and a symbol of Baguio’s storied past, the Bell House Library is expected to open its doors to café guests in the coming weeks. The initiative is anticipated to attract both residents and tourists, further enriching the cultural and recreational experiences within Camp John Hay.

The partnership is part of JHMC’s broader initiative to rekindle heritage spaces through sustainable and community-aligned enterprises. #