Mile Hi Group Requests Fair Review After Extended Closure of Outlets Inside Camp John Hay
Official Statement from the Mile Hi Group Camp John Hay
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Mile Hi Group has submitted a formal request to Malacañang for an objective review of procedures related to the closure of its outlets inside Camp John Hay, which began on November 3, 2025, following Cease and Desist Orders issued by Mr. Manjit Singh Reandi, President & CEO of John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC). This request is grounded entirely on documented timelines and official communications previously furnished to the proper authorities.
Reviving a Once-Deserted Mile Hi Area
According to its filings, the Mile Hi Group took the early risk of revitalizing the long-dormant Mile Hi Complex through an initial three-month lease from June to August 2025, bringing activity back into previously idle commercial spaces. The lease was later extended through written confirmations until January 2026. The company is also the registered owner of the “Mile Hi” trademark, which it used as part of efforts to restore the identity and character of the area.
Aligned With the LGU’s Heritage and Community Vision
The Mile Hi Group emphasized that its long-term plans for Camp John Hay align with the priorities of the City Government of Baguio—heritage protection, preservation, and restoration, environmental responsibility, family-centered tourism, and support for local livelihoods. Proposals submitted included reactivating Scout Hill’s playground, reviving an ice cream parlor, restoring the skating rink, and establishing a Sunday artisan and farmers’ market. and revitalizing cultural venues such as the Bell House and Amphitheater.
Documented Requests for Clarification
Between September and October 2025, the group submitted multiple written requests to JHMC seeking clarification on billing and utility concerns—specifically on September 6, September 24, and October 28. These inquiries were submitted in good faith to ensure accuracy and full compliance.
Attempts to Settle Despite Pending Clarifications
On November 14 at 4:06 p.m., the group delivered checks to cover the full amount of the outstanding billing—even while several items remained under clarification. One of the key unresolved concerns was a water charge for Mile Hi Grill amounting to more than ₱182,000 for a three-month period (approximately ₱60,000+ per month), while other outlets averaged less than ₱2,500 per month. Payment was attempted to demonstrate good faith, maintain operations, and prevent disruption to employees. However, the checks were not accepted due to internal approval requirements within JHMC.
Multiple Appeals for Dialogue
From November 3 to November 21, the group submitted more than ten (10) letters of appeal requesting guidance, meetings, and procedural clarification. These communications consistently asked for instructions that would allow the group to correct any issues promptly and responsibly.
No Opportunity to Rectify or Respond
The CDOs were dated October 30, 2025, and served on November 3, 2025—just one hour after one of the owners personally visited the JHMC office to clarify billing concerns. The directives were implemented immediately upon service, providing no prior notice or opportunity to cure any alleged deficiencies.
Additional Note on the Sequence of Notices
As reflected in the official documents on record, the Cease-and-Desist Orders (CDOs) for all outlets were dated October 30, 2025 and were served, implemented, and enforced on November 3, 2025. These CDOs immediately halted operations upon receipt. However, the Final Demand and Notice to Vacate letters for the same establishments were dated November 17, 2025 and served on November 18, 2025—more than two weeks after the CDOs had been enforced.
Under normal administrative procedure, Final Demands and Notices to Vacate are typically issued before any enforcement action, as they provide the concerned party a reasonable opportunity to clarify, settle obligations, or rectify alleged deficiencies. In this case, enforcement through the CDOs occurred first, while the notices that usually precede such action were issued and delivered only after operations had been closed.
This distinction is included solely to complete the factual timeline and explains why the Mile
Hi Group is respectfully requesting a review of the procedures applied, particularly regarding
the absence of an opportunity to respond or comply prior to closure.
OBO’s Findings and Recommendations to Cancel City Permits
According to the Cancellation of the Authority to Operate (ATO) letter dated November 6, 2025 issued by Engr. Bobby V. Akia, JHMC Building Official, the ATOs for In-Bento, Hay&Co, and Mile Hi Diner were revoked following the earlier CDOs. The letter cited grounds based on inspections and compliance reviews conducted between August and October 2025, including expired lease agreements, continued operations despite the lapse of those agreements, accumulated lease, CUSA, and utility obligations, and items cited in the October 23 Notice of Violation.
The same letter also stated that the Office of the Building Official “will recommend the cancellation of your business permits issued by the City Government of Baguio,” adding further urgency and concern for the group and its more than 30 affected employees.
Impact on Employees and Operations
More than 30 staff members have been unable to work since November 3. The group expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by employees and their families. Estimated operational losses amount to approximately ₱3.8 million due to non-operations, cancelled bookings, and spoilage of perishable inventory.
Commitment to an Amicable Resolution
The Mile Hi Group reiterates its full commitment to finding a resolution and respects the roles of all authorities involved. This request is solely concerned with establishing procedural clarity and securing the opportunity to comply fairly. ###
