@Davidx23 We always check the expiration dates of Filipino products when we buy in these stores. I agree with what you observed. Totoong may mga products that are beyond their expiry and aware ata ung owners.
I googled the word expiration dates and came up with an article saying about "best before" and "use by". "Best before" may not necessarily be harmful after the date kaso ung physical properties like texture and taste. Then, "use by" means do not use it after that date. Sa best before, depends pa rin. Consume at your own risk.
Sa alternatives naman sa tomato sauce, kalasa lang nung pasta sauce ung tomato sauce naten. Try mo ung mga bottled pasta sauce sa coles or woolies, ung generic with basil and onion or ung with onion lang. Mas marami pa kesa sa del monte and mas mura. Cheers