Toyo Eatery addresses claims of 'unfair' labor practices by former employees

Michelin-starred restaurant Toyo Eatery has denied allegations of unfair labor practices, saying it has always operated in accordance with the Philippine Labor Code and other applicable labor regulations.

In its July 9 statement, management said previous accounts of alleged unfair labor practices "do not accurately reflect" how the restaurant operates, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a workplace "rooted in fairness, respect, and genuine care" for every member of its team.

"For over a decade, our priority has always been to build a workplace rooted in fairness, respect, and genuine care for every member of our team. That has always been, and remains, our commitment," the statement began, noting that while they respect people sharing their personal experiences, they maintained that these claims misrepresent how the establishment actually operates.

"In our recent conversations, our current team members have expressed a very different perspective, one that reflects the supportive and respectful environment we actively maintain," it continued. "Many of our employees have been with us for years, and some have even returned after leaving at some point, which we believe speaks for itself."

Toyo Eatery maintained that it has consistently adhered to the Philippine Labor Code and employment laws throughout its 10 years of operation.

"We take our obligations to our employees seriously, from wages and benefits, to leaves," it said. "Prior to this issue, not a single labor case has ever been filed against us, a record we do not take for granted." 

The management shared that a June 3 inspection by the Department of Labor and Employment concluded without any findings of occupational safety violations, adding that it fully cooperated with the inspection and complied with all post-inspection requirements.

"We understand that our team members, past and present, may have varying experiences, and we do not dismiss those feelings lightly. If there are legitimate concerns, we have always been and remain open to addressing them through the proper channels," it said.

"With this official resolution behind us, our focus remains exactly where it has always been: on the well-being of our team. We take our responsibility to each one seriously, and we are incredibly grateful to those who know the reality of how we operate and continue to support us," it concluded.

The issue stemmed from a complaint from an alleged former employee who told Bilyonaryo News Channel that workers faced 18-hour shifts, lacked written employment contracts, and received fewer leave days than mandated by the Labor Code. The ex-employee also claimed that management lacked transparency regarding salaries and benefits, and alleged threats of industry blacklisting upon resignation.

Toyo Eatery is among the Philippines' most celebrated restaurants, known for its modern Filipino cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. Run by husband-and-wife team Jordy and May Navarra, it has been named The Best Restaurant in the Philippines by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants five times and earned its first Michelin star in October 2025.