Davao City Now Ranks as the Philippines' Most Traffic-Heavy City

Davao City has officially claimed the top spot as the most congested city in the Philippines, according to the 2024 TomTom Traffic Index. Ranking 8th globally out of 500 cities, Davao’s worsening traffic conditions have placed it ahead of Manila, which previously held the unenviable title. The index, which measures congestion and travel times across 62 countries, paints a challenging picture for travelers and residents alike.

Davao City Named the Philippines’ Most Congested City

On average, commuters in Davao take nearly 33 minutes to travel just 10 kilometers, the longest time recorded among Southeast Asian cities included in the study. In comparison, Manila—ranked 14th globally—has slightly quicker travel times, averaging 32 minutes for the same distance. Caloocan, a new entrant on the list, ranked 26th globally with an average of 27 minutes per 10-kilometer trip.

The toll of traffic in Davao City is significant. Motorists lose approximately 136 hours annually due to rush-hour congestion, despite slight improvements compared to 2023, when average travel times decreased by 30 seconds. In Manila, drivers face a similar predicament, with an annual loss of 127 hours in traffic. Payday Friday on 15 November 2024 was the capital’s worst traffic day, with drivers spending nearly 40 minutes to cover just 10 kilometers.

Globally, Barranquilla, Colombia, ranked as the city with the worst traffic, where 10-kilometer trips take an average of 36 minutes. Indian cities Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Pune followed in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place, respectively, while London rounded out the top five. Notably, Sapporo, Japan, recorded the single worst traffic day of 2024 on 17 January, with trips taking a staggering 47 minutes for 10 kilometers.

The 14th edition of the TomTom Traffic Index utilized advanced floating car data to evaluate congestion, factoring in road conditions, infrastructure, weather, and peak travel times. While Davao City’s ranking highlights its significant traffic challenges, the broader issue of urban congestion remains a pressing concern for other Philippine cities like Manila and Caloocan.

Also read: 10 Things to Do in Davao — the King City of the South

For visitors planning a trip to Davao, navigating its traffic hotspots is crucial. Early planning, avoiding peak hours, and exploring alternative transportation options like biking or ride-sharing apps can help mitigate delays. As the city grows, comprehensive traffic management and infrastructure development will be key to improving travel experiences in this vibrant urban center.

Featured image credit: Alexpunker via CanvaPro