Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has moved quickly to correct false pricing claims spreading online about its relief goods. The agency confirmed that each prepacked Family Food Pack (FFP) actually costs ₱797.80 per box, far below the ₱1,503.84 figure making rounds on social media.
According to a statement from the DSWD, the ₱1,503.84 amount that alarmed many netizens was never the real price. It served only as the maximum bid price, the ceiling amount interested suppliers were allowed to offer during the bidding process.
Where the ₱797.80 Price Came From
The final cost came through competitive bidding, a standard step in government purchasing. Among the suppliers who joined, 2 Go Global International Corporation submitted the lowest compliant bid at ₱797.80 per box.
That figure won the contract, which explains why the actual cost sits well under the maximum allowable price. It’s a helpful reminder that a bid ceiling and a final price are two very different things.
What’s Inside Each Family Food Pack
The ₱797.80 covers more than just the food. It also includes delivery cost and manpower needed to prepare and transport the packs to families in need.
Each box contains the following:
- 6 kilos of rice
- 4 cans of corned beef
- 4 cans of tuna
- 2 cans of sardines
- 5 sachets of 3-in-1 coffee
- 5 sachets of powdered choco malt
The packaging materials are also part of the total cost. These include:
- Regular slotted carton
- Vacuum rice bag
- Packaging tape
- Stretch film
When you add up the goods, the packaging, and the logistics behind getting each pack delivered, the ₱797.80 price makes far more sense than the inflated figure shared online.
A Push for Transparency
The DSWD stressed that all its procurement activities remain transparent and follow strict procedures. The agency said its purchasing process complies with Republic Act 12009, also known as the New Government Procurement Act.
For Filipinos abroad who watch closely how relief funds are handled back home, this clarification offers some peace of mind. Knowing that a fair bidding process shaped the final price helps build trust in how aid reaches struggling families.
The takeaway is simple: always check the facts before sharing pricing claims online. A single misread number can spark confusion, and accurate information protects both taxpayers and the families who depend on this support.