Impact of Telecommuting Arrangements, Occupation and Travel Mode on Avoided Commute Time and Travel Cost - Initial Evidence from Metro Manila

抄録

Telecommuting was first suggested to alleviate traffic problems and reduce energy consumption. COVID-19 forced the Philippines to implement community quarantines, during which telecommuting made it possible to continue work for companies that allowed employees to work-from-home. With fewer people traveling, transport energy consumption was reduced and air quality improved. However, these environmental benefits will no longer be enjoyed as Metro Manila traffic returns to pre-pandemic levels. The analysis of survey data showed significant differences among occupations in terms of the number of days a week that these workers could telecommute. Telecommuting was more likely among car users, which implies that focusing on their corresponding occupations might help to make telecommuting policy formulation more effective. By recognizing the different requirements of various occupations, telecommuting may make it possible to preserve or enhance the benefits enjoyed by workers in Metro Manila, in terms of avoided transport cost and avoided travel time.