My parents and grandparents, survivors of food scarcity during World War II, always kept a stash of non-perishable food “just in case” of emergencies such as typhoons, earthquakes, and strikes. At the top of their list of must-haves were canned sardines, which have become such a part of international standard rations during times of calamity that it has gained a bad rep as “pang-masa lang” or relief goods diet. The truth is that canned sardines are the most versatile, inexpensive, and nutritious staples to have around at any time.

Vanzi, S. (2020, March 26). Sardines Many Ways: Here's something to jazz up the all-time favorite relief staple. Manila Bulletin, p. B-7.