Benedict Cua’s ₱500 Noche Buena Challenge: Reality Check for Christmas Dinner
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently proposed that a “basic” Noche Buena — the traditional Christmas Eve feast for a family of four — could be prepared for only ₱500. To test this claim, content creator Benedict Cua decided to put it to the test, cooking a Noche Buena meal with limited budget and sharing his real-time experience.
What Benedict Cooked
- Spaghetti
- Fried Chicken
- Fruit Salad
He first spent ₱315.90 on groceries, then used the remaining ₱184 at a public market to buy chicken, pork, hotdog, oil, and spices. In total, he was able to cook those three dishes under the ₱500 budget. But the result? Emotionally heavy.
His Honest Reaction
“Posible… pero parang hindi siya enough,” he shared. As a father, he said the experience made him reflect on how hard it must be for families who’d have that as their only “handa” this Christmas. “Hindi ko ma-feel ’yung Pasko,” he said.
The Bigger Conversation
The DTI stands by its claim that ₱500 is enough for a pared-down Christmas meal for a small family. But many criticize it as unrealistic — given rising prices of basic goods, cooking essentials, and the desire for a meaningful celebration. For many, Christmas dinner isn’t just about filling stomachs — it’s about love, dignity, and giving your family something to remember.
Conclusion: Possible, But Far from Enough
Benedict Cua’s ₱500 Noche Buena challenge proved that while you can manage a meal on a shoestring budget, it falls short of what many families consider a proper Christmas celebration. For households expecting a hearty meal, loved ones gathered around the table, and a little extra to make the night special — ₱500 might not cut it.