Edu Manzano reacts to DTI’s claim on P500 Noche Buena budget

• Edu Manzano weighed in on the public debate over the Department of Trade and Industry’s claim that a Filipino family could prepare a Noche Buena meal with a P500 budget
• On Instagram, he posted a GMA Public Affairs news card highlighting the official’s statement, which has drawn widespread reactions online
• Edu remarked on how the claim quickly became a national talking point and announced that he plans to personally test whether the budget is realistic
• His post further amplified public scrutiny of holiday food affordability amid rising prices

Edu Manzano has added his voice to the ongoing public discussion sparked by the Department of Trade and Industry’s statement suggesting that a small Filipino family could prepare a Noche Buena spread for P500.

On Instagram, Edu shared a news card from GMA Public Affairs featuring the now-viral quote from DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque.

The card highlighted the official’s claim that P500 could already cover basic holiday staples, with Roque saying, “Kung tutuusin P500 makakabili na kayo ng ham.” She then emphasized that this budget supposedly allows families to prepare other dishes, adding, “Makakagawa ka na ng macaroni salad, makakagawa ka na rin ng spaghetti.” Roque also noted that the final budget would depend on the number of people sharing the meal, saying, “Depende rin po ’yan kung ilan ’yung kakain.”

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In his caption, Edu reacted to the remark, underscoring how it quickly became a talking point nationwide. The actor wrote, “Para sa mga hindi updated… eto po ’yung breaking news na nagpa-angat ng kilay ng buong Pilipinas.”

He followed this by quoting the claim on the P500 budget, saying, “Sabi nila, P500 daw… kaya na ang ham, macaroni salad at spaghetti.”

Edu then explained why he intends to put the claim to the test, noting, “Kaya naman susubukan natin. Kung sila ay confident… Tayo ay curious.”

He closed his caption by teasing, “Abangan ang 500 Peso Noche Buena Challenge.”

Edu’s post adds to the rising public scrutiny over holiday food affordability, as many Filipinos question whether the suggested P500 budget can realistically cover traditional Christmas dishes amid rising prices.

Edu Manzano is an actor, comedian, politician, and veteran television host known for leading game shows like The Weakest Link, Pilipinas, Game KNB?, 1 vs. 100, and Asar Talo Lahat Panalo. He has built a reputation for his sharp wit, humor, and candid views on social issues. Edu was formerly in a relationship with actress Vilma Santos, with whom he shares a son in showbiz, Luis Manzano. He also previously dated actress Cherry Pie Picache, and although they have since gone their separate ways, they remain on friendly terms and continue to treat each other with respect.

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Recently, Edu gained online attention after posting a graphic featuring a well-known corruption remark by the late Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. The quote, from her 2013 speech during the pork barrel scandal, highlighted her firm stand against wrongdoing. Edu’s post encouraged followers to share their thoughts, prompting a mix of humor, agreement, and criticism.

In another report, Edu took to social media to express frustration over the slow pace of justice amid corruption allegations. Posting on Instagram Stories and his feed, he used festive yet reflective music to contrast the holiday atmosphere with the seriousness of the issue. His captions called for accountability and echoed public concerns about government spending and delayed action.

Source: KAMI.com.gh