The worsening traffic congestion in Metro Manila has become an enduring dilemma for many urban workers, particularly those employed in the central business districts of Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC). According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Metro Manila ranks as the city with the worst traffic congestion worldwide and leads among major cities in Southeast Asia, surpassing Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
A Filipino commuter spends an average of 25 minutes and 30 seconds to traverse a 10-kilometer route—equivalent to the distance between Cubao and Makati. In 2023, congestion resulted in commuters losing up to 117 hours annually, an increase of over 12 hours compared to 2022. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) estimates that the Philippines loses ₱3.5 billion daily due to traffic in Metro Manila, amounting to a staggering ₱1.27 trillion annually. The economic repercussions prompted the Management Association of the Philippines to suggest declaring a state of calamity to address the issue.
Rethinking Urban Living: The 15-Minute City
In this context, the concept of the 15-Minute City emerges as a compelling solution. The idea is simple yet transformative: urban residents should be able to access workplaces, essential services, and leisure spaces within a 15-minute walk. MyTown, a network of 14 strategically located co-living dormitories near Taguig’s BGC and the Makati Central Business District, exemplifies this model.
Jogee Arellano, CEO of MyTown, highlights the financial and personal benefits of living closer to work:
“Commuting has become increasingly costly—not just monetarily but also in terms of well-being. A two-hour commute during rush hour is almost the norm for many Metro Manila residents. In this scenario, living near your workplace becomes a practical and appealing choice.”
Residents of MyTown benefit from its proximity to major offices, malls, and entertainment hubs. In an internal survey, nearly half of the respondents identified walking as their preferred mode of transportation. Others used motorcycles, public transport, or even alternative options like e-scooters and bicycles. The survey revealed that 36% of residents commute to work or school within 10–15 minutes, with 17% needing less than 10 minutes. These findings underscore the productivity and well-being gains achieved through the 15-Minute City lifestyle.
Integrating Communities for Modern Living
The 15-Minute City concept aligns seamlessly with SM Investments Corporation’s vision of “Integrated Lifestyle Cities.” Developments such as the Mall of Asia complex and SM Clark blend residential spaces, office buildings, schools, and MICE facilities around SM malls, which serve as contemporary community hubs.
MyTown’s live-where-you-work model particularly resonates with young professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle that fosters both growth and wellness. These urban solutions demonstrate how integrating residential and commercial spaces can lead to more sustainable, productive, and enjoyable city living.
About SM Investments Corporation
SM Investments Corporation is a leading Philippine company with market-dominant businesses in retail, banking, and property development. Through SM Prime Holdings, it is the country’s largest integrated property developer, encompassing malls, residences, offices, hotels, and tourism-related properties. For more information, visit www.sminvestments.com.
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