The Center for Women’s Resources (CWR) has raised alarm over the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) recommendation that Filipino families can prepare a traditional Noche Buena meal with just P500.

In a statement released Tuesday, CWR argued that while cost-saving tips may be useful, presenting P500 as a “sufficient” benchmark for a holiday feast ignores the harsh realities faced by households, particularly women who shoulder the burden of food preparation. 

“A dignified Noche Buena should not be reduced to an unrealistic benchmark,” the group said. “Instead of focusing on whether P500 can somehow cover a Noche Buena budget, the conversation should center on raising wages, ensuring price stability, and securing genuine economic security for Filipino families.” 

Key Concerns Raised

Unrealistic expectations:  P500 does not reflect the actual cost of preparing a traditional holiday meal. 

Burden on households: Families are continually expected to “adjust” while institutions fail to address systemic issues. 

Government inaction: The narrative shifts responsibility away from policymakers, normalizing economic insecurity. 

CWR emphasized that the debate should not be about how families can stretch limited budgets, but about why they are forced to do so in the first place. The group urged government agencies to prioritize wage increases, stabilize food prices, and implement long-term measures to ensure economic dignity for Filipino households. 

As the holiday season approaches, the P500 Noche Buena benchmark has sparked wider conversations about inequality, affordability, and the right of families to celebrate with dignity.