Named after American President Theodore Roosevelt’s secretary of war, this green space south of the Botanical Gardens used to be a rest and recreational facility for employees of the United States military and Department of Defense.
During World War II the property was used by the Japanese as a concentration camp for American and British soldiers. In 1991 Camp John Hay was turned over to the Philippine government for development into an upmarket country club, with hotels (including The Mansion), a golf course (T074/444-2131, Wwww.cjhhotels.com), private mountain lodges and sundry restaurants and clubhouses.
The expansive, undulating grounds have some nice walks through the pine trees and are also ideal for jogging. Jeepneys can’t enter the park itself, so it’s best to get a taxi from the city centre (P50). If you don’t have a particular destination in mind then ask to be dropped at the entrance to the Historical Core.
Here you can buy a ticket (P50) to see the Bell Amphitheatre, the Ambassador’s Residence (which is still US-owned) and the site where General Yamashita formally surrendered to US forces. At weekends, Filipino families congregate close to the entrance to the Historical Core to enjoy picnics away from the city centre’s traffic.
Also close by is the Tree Top Adventure (daily 8am–5pm; Wwww.treetop adventuresubic.com), where you can try a zip line (P200–300) and abseiling (P150), or join guided walks. If you need something to eat, try the friendly Chocolate de Batirol near the entrance to the golf club.
Alternatively head over to the Mile Hi Center where you will find duty-free outlet stores, several restaurants, a hotel and a handy ATM.
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