The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Jinky Jorgio
Recognizing the worsening traffic situation in the metropolis, the idea of living close to work has become more than just a convenience, it’s an economic necessity.
Recent data from the TomTom Traffic Index highlighted Metro Manila’s position as one of the most traffic-congested cities globally, with commuters spending an average of 25 minutes and 30 seconds to travel just 10 kilometers.
The economic toll is staggering, with daily losses estimated at P3.5 billion, totaling P1.27 trillion annually, according to a study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
With commuters losing up to 117 hours annually to gridlock, the growing appeal of the “live-where-you-work” model is proving to be a practical and life-enhancing solution.
With this in mind, the Sy family’s MyTown, a network of 14 strategically located dormitories near Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Makati, is capitalizing on this shift, offering an alternative to the daily grind of long commutes.
MyTown’s dormitories provide a solution to this problem, reducing commute times significantly.
The company’s CEO, Jogee Arellano, emphasized the economic benefits of living close to work, saying that long commutes not only drain financial resources but also impact personal well-being.
MyTown’s approach aligns with the growing trend of the “15-Minute City,” where essential services, offices, and leisure amenities are all within walking distance.
A recent survey by MyTown revealed that nearly 36 percent of residents commute for just 10-15 minutes, with 19 percent reporting commutes of 15-20 minutes.
In addition to the practical benefits of reduced commute times, MyTown’s residents also benefit from an improved quality of life. By providing affordable, fully equipped dormitories, MyTown offers a lifestyle that prioritizes time efficiency, reduced stress, and increased productivity.
MyTown also supports alternative modes of transport, such as e-scooters, bicycles, and motorcycle ride-hailing services, which help reduce environmental impact while maintaining convenience. This focus on sustainability aligns with broader urban development trends, including SM’s Integrated Lifestyle City initiatives, which aim to create multi-use developments that integrate residential, office, and retail spaces.