How Gov’t Arrived at P64-a-Day Threshold That Keeps One from Being ‘Food-Poor’

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) disclosed on Tuesday that to be considered not “food poor,” an individual in a typical family of five should spend at least P64 per day on food. This calculation is derived from the monthly food threshold of P9,581 for a family as of 2023, divided by the approximate 30 days in a month.

Determining the Food Threshold

GMA News Online consulted Philippine Statistics Authority chief Claire Dennis Mapa for insights into how this threshold was determined. According to Mapa, the P64 amount is based on a menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, developed by a nutritionist to meet the required energy and nutritional needs.

Sample Daily Menu:

• Breakfast: Scrambled egg, coffee with milk, and boiled rice or corn mix.
• Lunch: Boiled monggo with malunggay and dried dilis, banana, and boiled rice or corn mix.
• Dinner: Fried fish or boiled pork, vegetable dish, and boiled rice or corn mix.

Nutritional Content of the Sample Food Bundle

The menu aims to provide:

• 100% of the required energy
• 123% protein
• 119% calcium
• 80% iron
• 131% Vitamin A
• 88% Thiamin
• 80% Riboflavin
• 249% niacin
• 106% Vitamin C

Methodology and Assumptions

Mapa explained that the menu is based on a least-cost method approach, meaning it is designed to meet nutritional needs at the lowest possible cost. It is assumed that the food is prepared at home rather than purchased from stores. The food threshold is intended to cover minimum basic needs.

Adjusting for Inflation

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan noted during a Senate hearing that the food threshold is adjusted for inflation to monitor the effectiveness of government policies on poverty. This allows for consistent tracking of changes and ensures that poverty reduction efforts are accurately assessed.

Calls for Review

Senators have urged NEDA to review the food threshold to ensure the accuracy of poverty forecasts. Balisacan mentioned that revisiting the food basket will involve considering food preferences, relative prices of goods, and other factors.