More than just a ride: When commuting’s more draining than work

COMMUTING in the Philippines can often be more exhausting than the workday itself. Long hours spent in traffic or crowded public transport significantly drain workers’ energy and productivity.

For many, like Alexis Caceres, the daily commute is an ordeal that consumes not just time but also energy. 

republicasia interviewed Alexis, a daily commuter, who shared her struggles with the daily grind of commuting in Metro Manila.

In describing the exhaustion that sets in even before she starts her workday, Alexis said: “Kapagod. Imagine commuting for two hours para sa 8-hour work then commute ulit pauwi for another two hours. Ubos na energy ko sa biyahe palang.”

This situation has reached a point where commuting consumes not only time but also energy, leaving individuals drained even before they reach their destination. 

The long and tiring commute has become a major contributor to burnout, affecting both personal and professional lives.

The physical and mental impact of commuting

The physical and mental toll of commuting extends beyond mere fatigue. Long commutes not only reduce energy but also have a significant impact on overall well-being and productivity.

“Every time na umuuwi ako from work, ligo lang tapos diretso bed na talaga ako to sleep ‘cause I need to have enough energy for tomorrow’s work and commute ulit,” Alexis noted, highlighting the exhaustion that persists even after a long day at work.

The stress of commuting in the Philippines, where traffic can be overwhelming, has a profound effect on the mood and mental health of daily commuters. Alexis shared how the daily grind of commuting affects her overall well-being, leading to stress and fatigue that linger throughout the day.

Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to stress can lead to various health problems, including hypertension, heart disease, and mental health disorders. 

These issues are exacerbated by the lack of physical activity during commutes, as most commuters spend hours sitting in cramped spaces with little opportunity to move.

Moreover, the psychological impact of commuting can be profound, leading to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and even depression. 

The repetitive nature of commuting can also contribute to a sense of monotony, further affecting mental health and overall satisfaction with life.

Commuters deserve better

The energy drained during commutes limits the time and motivation for personal activities. 

“Yung commute kasi, it sadly takes my time imbis na sana nasa bahay na ako doing personal stuff or to meet my friends,” Alexis reflects.

The cumulative stress of commuting impacts not only mood and productivity but also the overall quality of life. Alexis shared how the daily commuting in Metro Manila affects her ability to engage in personal activities, leading to a diminished quality of life.

To cope with the demands of commuting, Alexis has had to adjust her entire routine. 

“For me to have ample time to prepare, gising ako maaga then laban ulit,” she explains. 

“I just keep in mind that this day will also come to an end, eventually mayayakap ko din ulit unan ko para matulog.”

This mindset helps her navigate the daily commute, but it is a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution.

Alexis said: “Commuting itself is draining. Regardless of how hard my work is, mas nakakapagod pa rin ang bumiyahe lalo na dito sa Pilipinas where you have to deal with traffic almost 24/7.”

As the daily commute continues to take its toll, it’s clear that something needs to change. 

Social media rants on commuting

Social media is full of rants and reflections on the commuting struggle, revealing the widespread frustration among Filipinos. 

@mjzeugirdor2498 Life of a Manila commuter .. 🥲🥲 #ManilaCommute #MetroManila ♬ original sound – johnmichaelrodr19 – MJcasipit25

@heydyudeyyy_on_ig pov: you're an employee working in Ortigas living in Rizal, struggling everyday going to work and going home from work. #fyp #fypシ #commuterlife #transportation ♬ Scott Street (Slowed Down) – Phoebe Bridgers

@_ur.iban POV: Mas napagod ka pa sa pila and traffic kesa sa work. #fypシ #commuterlife #worklife #fyp #dailycommuter #Ayala ♬ Scott Street (Slowed Down) – Phoebe Bridgers

These posts highlight the daily frustrations of commuters and the urgent need for better infrastructure and more convenient commuting options. 

The journey to work shouldn’t drain more energy than the workday itself.

The need for change

Commuting is more than just a ride; it’s a challenge that impacts health, productivity, and personal time. 

Improving public transport and promoting flexible work arrangements could provide much-needed relief to those affected by the daily grind of commuting.

By addressing the underlying issues of traffic, public transportation, and workplace flexibility, there’s hope that commuting can become a manageable part of daily life rather than a source of constant stress. The journey to work should be just that—a journey, not an ordeal.

With reports from Jasmin L. Britan