Christmas Eve Spendings 2023: Shopping Options within PHP 1,000
Noche Buena Price Guide for 2023: A Mixed Bag
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines has released a price guide for Noche Buena items for the holiday season, providing consumers with a clearer picture of the costs associated with traditional Filipino festivities. However, the latest reports suggest that there is no official indication of a general price increase for common Noche Buena items compared to last year.
According to the DTI's price guide, the cost of a fruit cocktail varies significantly, ranging from P57.72 for 432 grams to P293 for 3.6 kilograms. Cheese, another popular Noche Buena staple, is priced between P57 for 160 grams to P420 for 1 kilogram.
Elbow macaroni, a key ingredient in many Filipino dishes, costs between P23 for 200 grams to P124 for 1 kilogram. The price of a simple fruit salad has increased, costing from P140.87 to P681, depending on the size and ingredients.
The price of 500 grams of ham has seen a slight increase, from P163 to P204, depending on the brand. Interestingly, all-purpose cream for a 250 ml container is now priced at P49, making it a more affordable option compared to 2022.
Mayonnaise costs between P24 for an 80 ml sachet to P193 for a 700 ml jar. Queso de bola, a traditional cheese, is priced at P211.60 for 300 grams, P210 to P350 for 350 grams, P295 to P445 for 500 grams, and P435 for 750 grams.
The price guide indicates the manufacturer's suggested retail price for each Noche Buena item, which will remain effective until December 31, 2023.
While some items have seen slight price increases, others have remained the same. Out of 240 items listed on the price guide, 175 items from 24 brands had price increases, while only 22 items from 9 brands lowered prices, and the rest remained the same compared to last year.
It's important to note that while the DTI is actively monitoring prices to prevent any unjustified hikes, the average price increase for common Noche Buena items according to the DTI’s price guide is either zero or has not been publicly quantified yet. The government is emphasizing price stability and consumer protection rather than reporting a particular increase.
In conclusion, while some Noche Buena items have become more expensive, the overall price increase, if any, is yet to be officially quantified. Consumers are advised to refer to the DTI's price guide for accurate and up-to-date information on the costs of Noche Buena items this holiday season.
[1] DTI Press Release, 23 November 2023. [2] Social Media Post, 25 November 2023. [3] DTI Spokesperson Interview, 26 November 2023.
Personal-finance anxieties during the holiday season may still persist, as consumers navigate the mixed bag of price changes for traditional Noche Buena items in 2023. Despite a majority of items showing no increase in prices compared to last year, some food-and-drink staples like simple fruit salad and queeso de bola have seen a rise. On a positive note, all-purpose cream has become more affordable this year. In light of this, strategic shopping and personal-finance management remains key to maintaining a desired lifestyle during the festive season.
