Story perspectives

Filipino Family Struggles with Rising Prices This Christmas

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Marife Dhoctor, a domestic helper, and her husband earn a combined daily wage of over 1,000 pesos (US$17), leaving little for a Christmas Eve feast for their five-member family as prices rise.
Two of their children study at university, further tightening the family's budget.
Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque said 500 pesos is enough for a basic Christmas Eve feast, sparking outrage.
The remarks highlight the holiday pressures many Filipinos face.

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Story summary

Marife Dhoctor, a domestic helper, and her husband earn a combined daily wage of over 1,000 pesos (US$17), leaving little for a Christmas Eve feast for their five-member family as prices rise.
Two of their children study at university, further tightening the family's budget.
Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque said 500 pesos is enough for a basic Christmas Eve feast, sparking outrage.
The remarks highlight the holiday pressures many Filipinos face.