Bai Hotel Cebu, the Visayas’ largest hotel by room capacity, has announced a commitment to achieve 30% plant-based menu offerings across all eight dining outlets by 2027. The 4-star WorldHotels member property in Cebu City, Philippines, will implement the changes with support from international NGO Lever Foundation.
The commitment covers the hotel’s culinary operations serving guests across 668 guestrooms and suites. The announcement aligns with the hotel’s bai for Life 7 Pillars of Commitment sustainability framework, which includes Energy Synergy, Water Guardianship, Zero to Hero, Going Green, Food for the Future, Community Call, and People Focus.
“This 30% plant-based goal by 2027 represents our commitment to Food for the Future, one of our core sustainability pillars,” said Alfred Reyes, Vice President for Operations and General Manager at bai Hotel Cebu. “As the largest hotel in the Visayas, we have a responsibility to lead by example. This isn’t just about changing our menus—it’s about caring for our guests, our community, and the environment we all share. We’re proud to be part of Cebu’s growing momentum in sustainable dining.”
The move comes amid growing momentum for sustainable dining in Cebu City, where increasing numbers of hotels and restaurants have adopted plant-based menu commitments to meet changing guest preferences. A recent national survey by APAC research firm GMO Research found that 85% of Filipinos believe restaurants, hotels, and retailers should serve more plant-based foods. The survey also revealed that 80% of respondents indicated they would be more likely to patronize businesses that set clear goals to increase such offerings.
Environmental impact and industry recognition
Studies indicate that plant-based proteins produce up to 90% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to animal-based proteins. The alternative proteins also use up to 90% less land and water, and generate approximately 50% less food waste, according to research data.
The hotel received the 2024 Cebu Tourism and Hospitality Awards Sustainability Champion award from the Hotel Resort & Restaurant Association of Cebu. As a WorldHotels member property, bai Hotel Cebu combines international hospitality standards with regional approaches, reflected in its tagline “Your Host in the South.”
The 30% plant-based target by 2027 represents one of the region’s most substantial commitments in the hospitality sector toward alternative protein integration. The implementation will span the hotel’s full range of dining operations, from casual dining to banquet services.
“Bai Hotel Cebu’s leadership in the Visayas is inspiring,” said Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation. “Their commitment demonstrates how regional hospitality leaders can drive meaningful change. This 30% plant-based goal isn’t just good for business—it’s a reflection of their genuine commitment to their community and the environment.”
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