Ranked as having the world’s worst traffic congestion by the TomTom Traffic Index, the city saw commuters spending an average of 25 minutes to travel just 10 kilometers in 2023. This equates to a staggering 117 hours of annual time loss for a commuter, up by 12 hours compared to 2022.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) estimated that the Philippines loses ₱3.5 billion daily—or about ₱1.27 trillion yearly—due to traffic congestion. The Management Association of the Philippines has even suggested the gridlock warrants a state of calamity.
In response, live-work setups like MyTown—a network of dormitories near BGC and Makati—are emerging as practical solutions.
According to MyTown CEO Jogee Arellano, “The cost of commuting is no longer just financial—it takes a toll on time and well-being. Living near your workplace is becoming a necessity, not a luxury.”
MyTown embodies the 15-Minute City concept, where essential facilities are reachable within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
An in-house survey revealed that 36 percent of MyTown residents commute just 10-15 minutes to work, while 17 percent take less than 10 minutes. Notably, nearly half prefer walking, benefiting from proximity to offices, malls, and leisure spots.
This movement aligns with SM’s broader vision of building Integrated Lifestyle Cities, such as the Mall of Asia Complex and SM Clark, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces for enhanced urban living.
By reducing commute times, fostering productivity, and enhancing well-being, the 15-Minute City model offers a viable solution to Metro Manila’s traffic crisis and supports a more sustainable urban future.
