Benjamin Alves slams P500 Noche Buena budget claim: “Stop disrespecting the working class”
- Benjamin Alves voiced strong opposition to the DTI’s claim that a P500 budget can cover a full Noche Buena
- He stressed the disconnect between the government’s recommendation and the reality for ordinary Filipino workers
- The actor emphasized the hardships families face with rising prices and limited income
- He called for meaningful reforms to reduce the cost of living and improve support for farmers and essential services
Narito na ang paghahanap sa KAMI! Basahin ang mga balita tungkol sa iyong paboritong mga bituin sa pamamagitan lamang ng pag-type ng kanilang pangalan sa search bar!
Actor Benjamin Alves has spoken out strongly against the Department of Trade and Industry’s controversial suggestion that Filipino families can prepare a complete Noche Buena meal with only P500.
Source: Instagram
In a series of fiery Facebook posts, Benjamin expressed frustration over what he sees as a disconnect between the recommendation and the realities faced by ordinary workers.
Benjamin opened his reaction with a sharp remark highlighting the impracticality of the proposed budget.
He wrote, “Kahit siguro ChatGPT di kakayanin irender yung 500 pesos noche buena na yan madame.”
PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app!
The line underscored his disbelief that such an amount could realistically cover a traditional holiday meal.
In a follow-up post, he questioned why Filipinos were being urged to limit their spending for Christmas dinner while corruption remains a persistent issue.
He said, “Bakit niyo pinagtitipid ng 500 pesos yung mga Pinoy for their noche buena eh garapal nga mangurakot mga officials on a random Tuesday.”
Benjamin then shifted to describing the everyday hardship experienced by workers, emphasizing the emotional and financial toll of constantly trying to make ends meet.
He wrote, “Magttrabaho ka at makikipagsapalaran sa commute, mag bubudget ka buwan-buwan, linggo linggo, maiiyak ka na kaiisip paano mo ba pakakasyahin pera mo.”
He contrasted these struggles with the overly simplified budget guide, adding, “Only for them to say: sapat na yung kita mo for noche buena.”
He ended the post with a forceful message: “WTF man. Stop disrespecting the working class!”
In another post, Benjamin urged authorities to focus on long-term solutions that would actually reduce the cost of living.
He wrote, “Instead of trying to fit 500 pesos for a noche buena, maybe try to figure out how you can lower the cost of food and living altogether for the Philippines.”
The actor then laid out areas where change is needed, saying, “Subsidize the farmers, better transportation, MAYBE NO TAXES FOR 300 hundred f**** years.”
He concluded by acknowledging his emotional tone, adding, “I’m fully aware that I’m having crashout because of this.”
Benjamin’s posts reflect widespread public frustration surrounding the DTI’s P500 Noche Buena recommendation, with many Filipinos calling it unrealistic given rising prices and stagnant wages. His reaction amplifies ongoing discussions about affordability, governance, and the daily struggles of the working class.
Benjamin Alves is a Filipino actor, model, and commercial endorser known for his work in television and film. He began his career in showbiz under the name Vince Saldaña and later adopted the screen name Benjamin Alves. He gained recognition for roles in popular TV dramas and movies, including appearances in ABS-CBN and GMA Network.
In a related report, DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Roque explained that a P500 budget can cover a basic Noche Buena, including staples such as ham and spaghetti. The department referenced its price guide to support the claim that this amount is adequate for a small family. Roque noted that not all households aim for extravagant celebrations and that some may choose to allocate extra money for gifts. Her remarks come in response to public skepticism over whether P500 is sufficient for a traditional Filipino Christmas meal.
Meanwhile, Xian Gaza criticized the DTI’s P500 Noche Buena budget as unrealistic and disconnected from everyday market realities. He highlighted the financial struggles of Filipino households, noting the amount barely covers basic holiday items. Xian questioned the usefulness of the budget guide and its impact on price regulation. He also pointed out that the Philippines’ high cost of living persists despite comparatively low wages.
Bagong feature: Tingnan ang mga balitang para sa'yo ➡️ hanapin ang "Recommended for you" block at mag-enjoy!
Source: KAMI.com.gh
