With Another Round of Oil Price Hike This Week, DOE Gives Tips on How to Save Fuel

With another round of oil price hike expected on Tuesday, October 9, the Department of Energy (DOE) has some tips on how motorists can save on fuel to cushion the blow of gasoline prices breaking the PHP60 barrier.

According to DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi, his agency is exhausting all options to mitigate the rising fuel prices.

"Despite global forces affecting the country's fuel prices, we are in constant communication with the oil industry players on how we can help the public amid the global oil situation," said Secretary Cusi. "We've been exploring higher and expanded fuel discounts to public utility vehicles, looking at nearby countries for lower priced supply and even went to unpopular options to ensure that consumers are protected from the impact of this global price situation."

In the meantime, the DOE shares with the public some simple tips in fuel use:

1. When Buying Petroleum Products  

• Ask around and look for the best quality, price and service.
• Fill up when your gas tank is already half-full.
• Buy gasoline during the coolest time of the day (early morning or evening).
• Compare the price on the dispensing pump with the “Price Display Board” prominently displayed to ensure price match.
• Make sure the pump dials are reset to zero before you allow the gas attendant to start dispensing gas.
• Check to see that the price per liter remains the same throughout the pumping process.
• Check your vehicle manual to ensure that the petroleum product being used is appropriate.
• Always ask for and check the official receipt of the sold fuel products for this will serve as your proof of purchase in case problems would arise after the purchase

2. When Using Petroleum Products

• Plan your trip, including the number of passengers, route and traffic considerations.
• Turn off all power-consuming accessories before turning off the ignition. This action will minimize engine load the next time you start up.
• Avoid idling for more than 30 seconds.
• Observe and maintain speed limit in order to anticipate stops and ensure safety.
• Adjust your driving habits to changing road conditions (ex. rough and narrow roads).
• Accelerate slowly on gravel or slippery roads.
• Take advantage of rolling resistance rather than heavy braking to help slow you down. This deceleration technique is one of the best for fuel saving.
• Avoid unnecessary steering wheel movement or swerving since each sideward movement of the tire causes fuel-consuming drag.
• Avoid tailgating, for this reduces your chances for planning economic modes of driving.
• Remember that revving the engine just before turning off the ignition costs extra fuel and may cause engine damage.

The DOE is assuring the public that it will closely monitor the developments in the world market and the implementation of these changes in the local market.