For the longest time, Manila was the ultimate destination where hopes and dreams become a reality. It may not be accurate to a growing number of Filipinos, though.
Here are the best reasons why one should consider leaving it and instead move elsewhere:
1. Housing Is Cheaper Somewhere Else
Today, Filipinos can now choose where they want to live, thanks to a booming real estate industry. Even better, their money can go a long way. An example is a house for sale in Cavite.
A two-story home in the area may cost less than 2 million pesos, and it may already accommodate a small family. This property may also be inside a township, which is a more developed community. It means owners can have access to private facilities, such as a clubhouse, a hall, or a chapel.
In Manila, it’s now rare to find a property this cheap, especially in key cities such as Makati, Pasig, and Quezon City. Also, due to the capital’s high population density, most of the projects are condominiums.
These condo units usually have a significantly smaller size. It’s not uncommon to find properties that measure less than 30 square meters. It may not be the ideal one for a growing family.
2. Traffic Can Be Bad
There’s a good reason why some experts consider Manila commuters as warriors: Traffic in the Philippine capital can be horrendous.
In a 2019 report by TomTom, the region had the second-worst traffic congestion in the world after Bangalore, India. The levels were as high as 73% in the highways and 70% in non-highways. In 2018, it was the most congested city among all developing Asian nations.
Data from Boston Consulting Group, meanwhile, revealed that Filipinos spent an equivalent of 16 days a year stuck in traffic. It translated to nearly 100,000 pesos of lost income. A person may spend around four hours a day trying to get to work and back.
3. Air Pollution Can Increase the Risk of Mortality
During Luzon lockdown, a photo that showed the Sierra Madre went viral online, not only because it’s majestic but also because it highlighted a severe problem in the metro: air pollution. The quality of indoor and outdoor air in the country is so dangerous it can even kill.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution in the country results in over 100,000 deaths annually. The Philippines even has the third highest fatality due to pollution after Mongolia and China. This type of pollution also raises the odds of chronic diseases, such as lung issues, cancers, and cardiac arrest.
Air pollution may be less in places, such as Cavite, for many reasons. One, it still has fewer residents than the National Capital Region. Fewer people can mean fewer vehicles, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions. These areas may also have more plants and green spaces. Trees, for instance, can help absorb carbon and improve oxygen levels.
4. Progress Is Spreading
As Manila becomes congested and as the government pushes for more infrastructure, growth is creeping into other areas in the Philippines. For example, a train line will eventually connect Bacoor in Cavite toBaclaranin Manila. The government may also move the international airport toSangleyPoint.
With these developments are more public amenities, such as schools and healthcare facilities, so they no longer have to travel to the metro to get these services.
Manila isn’t for everyone. For those who cannot stand the traffic and pollution or want to enjoy a lower cost of living and affordable housing, they can set their sights somewhere else.
