Stern Real Estate and Development Corp. is ramping up its presence in Camp John Hay, committing fresh capital to expand hospitality offerings within the former American rest and recreation facility.
The company recently signed a new 25-year contract of lease with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) covering a 1,500-square-meter commercial lot, paving the way for the development of a new 4- to 5-star hotel. The project will add at least 70 hotel rooms, nearly doubling the capacity of Stern’s flagship Le Monet Hotel, a longtime locator and one of Camp John Hay’s most recognizable hospitality landmarks.
The new hotel development is part of Stern’s P178-million investment commitment tied to the continued lease and expansion of Le Monet Hotel, as well as upgrades to the Filling Station food court, another Stern-operated facility within the zone.
Together, the projects aim to enhance the overall visitor experience while strengthening Camp John Hay’s position as a premier mountain destination.
The lease signing was led by BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang and Stern executive vice president Eric Owen Singson Jr., signaling strong public-private collaboration in the redevelopment of the estate.
BCDA said the expanded investment is expected to spur tourism growth and commercial activity in Camp John Hay, while generating additional employment opportunities for the local community. The new hotel will cater to both leisure and corporate travelers seeking premium accommodations in Baguio City’s forested enclave.
With demand for high-quality leisure and meetings venues continuing to rise, Stern’s latest move underscores growing investor confidence in Camp John Hay as a sustainable tourism and business hub. The expansion also reflects BCDA’s broader mandate to unlock the economic potential of former military bases through long-term, value-driven partnerships.
