ANGELES CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has stated that simple routine checks and precautionary measures on vehicles would save gas consumption up to 30 percent.

DTI Central Luzon Director Blesila Lantayona said motorists could save up to 30 percent from their usual fuel gas consumption by simply avoiding unnecessary and abrupt breaks while driving.

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Lantayona said the reduction of speed in driving might also decrease fuel consumption by 20 percent. "A vehicle that is not working well consumes about 50 percent more of gasoline. It is also very important to check tires to maintain the right speed and timing when driving."

The director added that it is not advisable to put engine on for more than 10 seconds while the vehicle is on stop or parked. "If the vehicle is not moving, it is better to put the engine off top save gasoline," she said.

According to Lantayona, it is also not advisable to put too much load in the vehicle or to overload it.

"And the most important of all is to choose a car that is fuel efficient and make it a habit to read the manual to learn the advised safety and care tips for your vehicle," she said.

However, some observers question the timeliness of Lantayona's "tips" which are readily available in the Internet and other materials for general information, as it were made at a time when the prices of diesel and gasoline are only half of how much they used to be some months back.

Some also advised the DTI to concentrate on its mandate of going after profiteers and making sure that unscrupulous traders are not shortchanging the public, especially during the holiday season.

For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Manila.

(December 29, 2008 issue)
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