Cebu’s sustainable dining scene is booming, and bai Hotel Cebu is leading the charge. The Visayas’ largest hotel has committed to transforming nearly a third of its menu to plant-based options by 2027—a move that sets a new benchmark for the region’s hospitality industry.

With 668 guestrooms and eight dining outlets serving thousands of guests monthly, the scale of this commitment is significant. When a 4-star WorldHotels property of this size shifts its culinary direction, it sends ripples through the entire industry.

“This 30% plant-based goal by 2027 represents our commitment to Food for the Future, one of our core sustainability pillars,” says Alfred Reyes, Vice President for Operations and General Manager. “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.”

The initiative fits within the hotel’s broader bai for Life 7 Pillars of Commitment sustainability framework, showing that this isn’t a one-off trend but part of a comprehensive environmental strategy.

The environmental case for plant-based dining is compelling. Studies show these proteins produce up to 90% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than animal-based options, while using up to 90% less land and water. They also generate about 50% less food waste—numbers that add up quickly across hundreds of daily meals.

“bai Hotel Cebu’s leadership in the Visayas is inspiring,” says Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation, the international NGO supporting the hotel’s transition. “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.”

bai Hotel Cebu joins major Philippine hospitality players like Accor, The Ascott Limited Philippines, IHG Philippines, Okada Manila, and Winford Resort and Casino Manila in embracing plant-based commitments. But as the Visayas’ largest hotel, its pledge carries special weight for regional standards. The commitment builds on the hotel’s recognition as 2024 Sustainability Champion by the Hotel Resort & Restaurant Association of Cebu.