Riding Through Traffic Amid Rising Fuel Price Challenges
Every morning in Valenzuela, I start my day on my Dominar 400. Before I even hit the main road, I spot the ever-changing fuel price signs.
Right now, gasoline averages ₱58-59 per liter. Diesel hovers around ₱52. But in Valenzuela, prices are a little lower — some stations list ₱56/liter for unleaded. That’s a small win compared to places like Makati where it can hit ₱59.
Here’s a quick look:
| Location | Unleaded (RON91) | Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Valenzuela | ~₱56.00/liter | ~₱51.50/liter |
| Manila City | ~₱58.00/liter | ~₱53.00/liter |
Each peso counts. But the bigger cost isn’t just money — it’s mental. Long commutes and rising fuel price wear us down. Yet, day after day, we ride on.
How I Stay Calm When the Fuel Price Keeps Climbing
Some mornings, I feel the pressure. Traffic crawls. My tank runs low. The fuel price is higher than the day before.
But I’ve learned one thing: I can’t control everything — especially the price at the pump. What I can control is my response.
I budget early in the week. I also top up before the weekly increase. But more importantly, I start each ride with a simple prayer.
Even just whispering, “Lord, guide me today” gives me a fresh mindset. My bike becomes more than transportation — it’s a place of quiet reflection.
Keeping Peace on Two Wheels
On the road, things happen fast. Drivers cut you off. Heat rises. Tempers flare. Yet, I hold my peace. Not always perfectly, but I try.
Instead of reacting, I breathe. My Dominar 400 becomes my companion through chaos. Each ride reminds me that staying calm is a daily decision.
It helps to remember why I ride — for freedom, not frustration. Even high fuel price can’t take that away.
Learning from the Tank: Fullness and Faith
I’ve even written about keeping my tank full. There’s a deeper lesson there. Just like gas, our energy and spirit need refilling too.
In this Dominar 400 article, I reflected on why I top up often. It’s about preparation, but it’s also about peace of mind.
Life works the same way. We can’t wait until we’re empty before seeking strength.
Why Fuel Price Varies from One Station to Another
Many riders ask: “Why is fuel cheaper in Valenzuela than in Makati?” The answer? It’s all about supply, distance, and competition.
Fuel that travels farther costs more. Valenzuela is near depots, so delivery costs stay lower. In contrast, prices spike in remote areas or business zones.
Stations with more rivals drop prices to stay competitive. That’s why Cleanfuel or Jetti often sell cheaper than Shell or Petron.
Here’s why prices change:
- Transport Distance – Fuel farther from depots = higher price
- Station Competition – More stations nearby = lower rates
- Company Pricing – Big oil brands set fixed margins
- Local Expenses – Rent and taxes vary by city
Why Location Affects Your Budget
Choosing the right station makes a difference. Even a ₱2/liter difference saves you ₱100-₱200 monthly if you ride daily.
That’s why I track station prices along my route. It’s not just about savings. It’s about riding smart.
Sometimes, the cheaper station is just 1 kilometer further. I don’t mind the extra ride if it means I stretch my fuel budget.
Watch Out: Fuel Price Next Week Might Rise Again
As of mid-June, prices jumped by ₱1.80 per liter — the highest so far this year. Since January, fuel costs have risen nearly ₱7 per liter.
Experts say the spike is due to:
- Global supply cuts
- Peso weakening against the dollar
- Political tensions in oil-exporting countries
The Department of Energy tracks international rates to forecast prices. If conditions remain, the fuel price next week might increase again.
Or we might get a small rollback. But most riders, like me, choose to stay ready — just in case.
How I Prepare for the Weekly Change
Every Monday, I check the news. If a price hike is likely, I fill up before Tuesday.
I also limit long rides unless needed. Sometimes, I even carpool or schedule meetings virtually to save gas.
These simple steps help me keep control. Not over prices, but over my reaction to them.
Faith on the Highway: What the Road Teaches Me
Riding a motorcycle in Manila isn’t for the weak. Between potholes, heat, and fuel costs, each ride tests your spirit.
But it’s also where I’ve learned the most.
Some days are harder than others. But I’ve found that when you fill your spiritual tank first, you ride lighter — even with a full load.
The Road and Real Life: Same Struggles, Same Strength
There’s a reason many of us say “ride safe” instead of goodbye. Because life — like riding — is unpredictable.
You might start with a full tank but face unexpected detours. Or you might hit empty faster than expected.
But faith is knowing the journey isn’t wasted. That every kilometer shapes you.
So whether the fuel price next week climbs or falls, I choose to keep moving — and keep trusting.
Closing Thoughts: More Than Just a Fuel Price
This post isn’t just about gas. It’s about grace.
Yes, the fuel price is a real struggle. It hurts our wallets and sometimes our plans. But it also gives us a reason to reflect.
We learn to budget. We learn to stay calm. And above all, we learn to keep the faith.
If you’re a daily rider like me, I hope these thoughts help. May your tank stay full, and your spirit stay stronger than any storm.
Let’s face this life one ride at a time — with courage, with discipline, and always with a little bit of faith.
