The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is standing by its estimate that a Filipino family can prepare a modest Noche Buena meal with a budget of ₱500.
In an interview with DZZM Teleradyo on Thursday, November 27, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the amount is sufficient to purchase ingredients for traditional holiday dishes such as macaroni salad and spaghetti — staples of many Filipino Christmas tables.
“With ₱500, you can already buy ham. You can make macaroni salad, you can make spaghetti — of course, it also depends on how many people will eat,” Roque said.
The Trade chief emphasized that actual spending will vary depending on the size of the family and the menu they choose to prepare. “Their budget really depends on what they want to serve this Christmas and how big their family is. If there are only three of you, naturally, you’ll spend less. If there are four, that amount goes up a bit,” she added.
Roque noted that families may save more this holiday season due to bundles, packs, and a price freeze implemented on basic and prime commodities — measures that will stay in place until January 2026.
She encouraged consumers to remain vigilant and stay updated on official price guides. “Consumers should know the prices of goods. The best way is to check the DTI website and social media pages,” Roque advised.
She added that the posted guides include updated price lists for basic, prime, and Noche Buena items, including those that have rolled back or retained their prices.
