Cycling to Work? Metro Manila cyclists share tips on staying fresh
Amid rising fuel prices triggered by the Middle East conflict, cycling resurfaces as an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option to get around in Metro Manila, especially for work.
Pedaling may be a breeze for those who are used to it, but newcomers may have their share of concerns. For instance, how are workers who ride a bicycle to work not sweaty or exhausted when they reach the office after riding in the Philippines' humid weather? Seasoned bike commuters told PhilSTAR Life that staying fresh during a ride is possible with the right strategies.
Janardan Ladyong, 38, known online as “Manila Bike Commuter,” has been cycling as his mode of transportation for over two decades. Nowadays, he commutes at least three times a week for grocery runs and other errands.
For him, cycling is a highly efficient way to move around the metro, considering many traffic-congested areas in the country. He also finds commuting by bike three times faster than waiting on trains or jeepneys during the rush hour.
“Compared to refueling, maintenance, parking fees, and other things you commonly have to deal with when operating a motor vehicle, heat and sweat with bike commuting are actually very minor issues,” he added.
Meanwhile, content marketing professional Myta Santiago, 36, a regular bike commuter and road safety advocate, cycles to work because it doesn't strain the wallet as much. "It's an affordable way to get around,” she told L!fe.
Quick guide to bike commuting
Planning to grab your helmet and bike to work for your next shift? Ladyong and Santiago shared some tips to help take the hassle out of your pre-work ride.
Before you hit the road, Santiago says staying comfortable on your bike commute requires preparation. For her, planning routes helps reduce heat exposure—and make sure to wear sunscreen 30 minutes before your trip.
“I map out my ride and look for neighborhood routes,” she said. “While indirect, they usually have more shade and aren't as congested as main roads.”
You don't have to wear your office attire during your commute, too. Santiago shared its best to wear light clothing that will dry quickly. Bringing a change of clothes and a hygiene kit that you can easily use in the restroom is key to staying fresh after the ride.
“I also have a small kikay kit for essentials: face wipes, a small deodorant stick, just in case."
Ladyong, meanwhile, said that sweating shouldn't discourage you from trying bike commuting. “Sweating [is] often perceived negatively, especially when it comes to bike commuting, but it’s just the body’s response to regulate one’s temperature,” he told L!fe.
Adjusting to the weather is key for cyclists to manage the heat. “Acclimatize your body for bike commuting. Start with short trips and errands, and ride early morning or in the evening, then work from there,” Ladyong said.
He said finding the right pace is also important. “Bike like you’re walking. When you’re pedaling with less effort, you’d naturally sweat less,” he said.
Ladyong also cited the need for constant hydration. “Always make sure you carry water with you, and drink throughout the day.”
On March 6, Marcos Jr. announced some initiatives to conserve energy resources during the Middle East conflict. This includes implementing a four-day work week for some government offices and cutitng electricity and petroleum costs by 10 to 20%.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, meanwhile, warned of a fuel increase from P17 to P24 per liter this week. Some oil firms have committed to rising prices in increments of P2.50 or P10, and not all at once.
The government is unable to control fuel prices since the oil industry is deregulated, meaning oil companies are obligated to only report and justify their price adjustments to the DOE.
The conflict in the Middle East began when Israel, in coordination with the US, launched airstrikes on Iran on Feb. 28, taking out Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Retaliatory attacks have upended the region, as well as markets across the globe
