As time passed, the Philippines asserted greater independence of thought and action. The successor agreements to the 1947 R.P.-U.S. Bases Agreement reflected this stance and attitude. In 1965, the 1947 pact was amended to reduce the number of years for its enforcement from 99 years to just 25 years more. This brought the expiration of the agreement forward to September 1991.

Further changes were made in 1979. Under this Agreement, the American military bases became essentially Philippine bases with Filipino base commanders. However, certain areas within the bases were designated as U.S. facilities and were placed under an American commander. Correspondingly, John Hay Air Station remained essentially a rest and recreation center with certain areas like the base Exchange remaining reserved for American use. But its facilities were no longer for the exclusive us of American servicemen. Members of Armed Forces of the Philippines and their guests could thereafter enjoy them as well.

Among its important provisions was the reversion of the free title of Camp John Hay to the Philippine Government. This meant that the Camp became "a Philippine military base over which Philippine sovereignty extends.” This new status was most eloquently illustrated on February 24, 1979 when the Philippine flag was raised at the Camp’s main gate. From then on, the American flag could be raised only within buildings or other indoor sites and in front of the headquarters of the U.S. base commander.

The new changes did not cause any disruptions in the operations of the Camp. What did change was the policy on exclusive use. The general public was allowed in on an unprecedented scale. Gate entry passes were no longer required. To reflect this new policy, facilities and services were restructured to make them desirable and affordable for the most people. For instance, public transportation from the main gate and around the major routes was made available. A jeepney shuttle service left the main gate every 30 minutes and was available from 6 a.m. till midnight. Sports and recreation facilities were also upgraded. Recreation programs were added, including a youth center, fun run as well as weightlifting and fitness classes.

Thus, while the Camp continued to cater to military personnel, their dependents and retired U.S. servicemen, there was a more welcoming spirit and greater access that helped alleviate long standing misgivings about having a piece of the Philippine soil outside its sovereign rule.

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