Court and AG Emphasize Need for Joint Session on E-Land Lease

The Department of Public Lands (DPL) remains unable to proceed with the former Mariana Resort & Spa property due to the absence of legislative action in a joint session, DPL Secretary Sixto K. Igisomar informed lawmakers during a Senate committee meeting on February 3, 2026. The lease agreement with E-Land requires approval from the Legislature in a joint session, as per Commonwealth law, for leases involving more than five hectares of public land for commercial use.

While the Senate adopted a resolution rejecting the lease, the court has indicated that action by only one chamber does not constitute final legislative action. Attorney General Edward Manibusan emphasized the necessity of a joint session to either approve or formally reject the lease, allowing the parties to move forward in the litigation. An order issued by Associate Judge Joseph N. Camacho echoed this position, stating that only the Senate's rejection does not suffice as a joint session decision.

The DPL and E-Land have negotiated lease terms consistent with the revenues offered by E-Land's proposal that satisfy all regulatory requirements. However, without a joint session to address the lease, the DPL cannot proceed, and the litigation remains unresolved. The court has ordered both parties to update it regarding any further legislative or procedural developments relevant to the progress of this case.