A LAWMAKER is criticizing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for suggesting that a ₱500 budget is sufficient for a Filipino family’s Noche Buena celebration.
The remarks, made by DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, have been met with disbelief and anger, with some calling the suggestion “insulting” given the current high cost of living.
Rep. Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro PL, House Public Accounts Committee Chair and House Trade and Industry Committee Member, questioned the DTI’s assessment, stating, “Sa anong planeta kasya yung P500 para sa Noche Buena ng pamilyang Pilipino?” (On what planet does ₱500 fit for a Filipino family’s Noche Buena?)
Ridon pointed out that even a simple Noche Buena meal of spaghetti and cheese would likely exceed the ₱500 budget, especially for larger families. He emphasized that the government’s focus should be on ensuring affordable prices for essential goods, rather than dictating how much families should spend on their Christmas celebration.
“Ang mas mahalaga sa mga Pilipino ay ang pagtitiyak ng gobyernong mananatiling mababa at abot-kaya ang presyo ng mga sangkap at pangangailangan para sa pagdiriwang ng Pasko,” (What is more important to Filipinos is ensuring that the government keeps the prices of ingredients and necessities low and affordable for the celebration of Christmas) Ridon said.
Ridon also sarcastically suggested that the DTI might be living in the past, stating, “Kasya yan if you travel back in time‼️Habang nalulunod sa taas-presyo ang ating mga kababayan, nakakainsulto ang mga ganitong paandar.” (That’s enough if you travel back in time.While our countrymen are drowning in high prices, these kinds of antics are insulting.)
Ridon further criticized the DTI for repeatedly claiming that ₱500 is sufficient for a decent Noche Buena since 2022, suggesting that the DTI’s “imaginary family” must be practicing One Meal a Day (OMAD) for the holiday season.
Instead of promoting unrealistic budgets, Ridon urged the government to certify a ₱200 wage increase to help workers afford a proper Christmas celebration.
