Beating Manila Traffic: Why Office Accessibility Matters for Businesses

In Metro Manila, traffic has become a business risk more than just an inconvenience. According to the

2023 TomTom Traffic Index, it took an average of 25.5 minutes to travel just 10 km, ranking the city

among the most congested in the world. Meanwhile, congestion costs the Philippine economy an

estimated Php 3.5 billion per day, a figure projected to rise to ₱5.4 billion daily by 2035 if left

unaddressed. (Source: East Asia Forum)

These losses are not only economic, but they are also human. Long commutes lead to fatigue, stress, and

decreased focus, ultimately affecting productivity and morale. For employers, the question of where to

locate an office has become strategic, shaping not just operations but employee well-being and business

resilience.

The Case for Accessible Offices 1. Reduced Commute Fatigue and Greater Focus

Shorter travel times help employees arrive energized and ready to perform. Less time on the road

means lower stress, sharper focus, and higher daily productivity.

2. More Predictable Attendance and Lower Absenteeism

Accessible offices reduce commute uncertainty, leading to fewer delays and more consistent

attendance. Predictability in travel time also minimizes stress caused by unpredictability of traffic.

3. Improved Well-Being and Retention

When employees spend less time commuting, they regain hours for rest, family, and personal

pursuits—key drivers of engagement and loyalty.

4. Lower Hidden Costs

Accessibility translates to savings. Businesses spend less on fuel, allowances, and lost productivity

caused by traffic delays and fatigue.

5. Stronger Collaboration and Connectivity

Offices near transport routes and central hubs make in-person interaction easier, supporting

collaboration, teamwork, and client coordination even in hybrid setups.

Putting Accessibility into Practice: Location Matters

Accessibility shows its value when workplaces are deliberately connected to their surroundings. Offices

near transport terminals or major roads reduce friction in getting to work. Mixed-use

neighborhoods—where employees can grab lunch, run errands, or meet clients nearby save time throughout the day. Multiple access points such as side roads and walkways also help maintain flexibility

when congestion occurs.

In Metro Manila, addressing traffic has become a shared priority across sectors. In early 2025, JICA and

the MMDA launched a three-year project to enhance traffic management systems and data-driven

mobility solutions under the Capacity Enhancement on Traffic Management with Improvement of

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) initiative. At the same time, large-scale infrastructure efforts,

including the Metro Manila Subway and EDSA rehabilitation project, aim to improve long-term urban

mobility. (Source: Daily Tribune)

Choosing an office that is accessible today and aligned with where transport improvements are

headed gives businesses a clear operational edge.

Beyond the Metro: Expanding Accessibility Mindset

While Metro Manila remains the country’s commercial core, rising congestion and shifting work trends

are prompting some businesses to look beyond the capital. Emerging business hubs in cities like Clark,

Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao offer growing infrastructure, reduced commute times, and lower operational

costs. Establishing satellite or regional offices outside Metro Manila helps companies tap new talent

pools while easing the burden on employees based in the capital.

This regional shift does not replace the need for well-located Metro offices, it complements it. A

blended strategy that balances central accessibility with regional expansion allows businesses to stay

connected while supporting employee well-being and nationwide growth.

A Smarter Way Forward

As traffic challenges persist, accessibility is proving to be a critical factor in shaping employee

experience, retention, and organizational efficiency. The most forward-thinking companies today are

those that treat location not just as logistics but as part of their people strategy.

In an environment where every hour counts, accessible offices and a thoughtful approach to where

work happens can make all the difference.

Accessibility, the GreatWork Way

At GreatWork, accessibility has always been at the heart of workspace design. Our offices are

strategically located across key points in Metro Manila: EDSA, Ortigas Center, Quezon Avenue, and

Timog, Quezon City all within reach of major transport routes and commercial hubs. These locations

make the daily commute easier for employees and clients alike, helping businesses thrive without the

strain of long travel times.

In line with the growing regional expansion trend, GreatWork is also opening soon in Cavite, bringing

flexible, modern workspaces closer to emerging business communities outside the Metro. It is part of

our ongoing commitment to create spaces where accessibility supports productivity, well-being, and

growth across all locations.