International Container Terminal Services Inc. said it obtained an approval from the Philippine Ports Authority to expand the Manila International Container Terminal.
The port operator led by businessman Enrique Razon said the first phase of construction of MICT’s Berths 7 and 8 would begin on Oct. 15, while the second phase would start in February 2019, pending final approvals. The company also plans to add full back up area for the future berths 9 and 10.
ICTSI global corporate head Christian Gonzalez said the berth expansion, all with a controlling depth of 13.5 to 14.5 meters, would further strengthen MICT’s capacity to service the world’s larger box ships and the increasing volume that comes with them.
“On top of our commitments, the construction of these berths is our response to the need for an increase in capacity and increased productivity over the longer term. We also need to accommodate system changes, such as the steady increase in vessel size, the consolidation of major shipping players, and the introduction of rail services,” he said.
He said the expansion would also include the addition of yard space with the construction of the back-up area for berths 9 and 10. When completed, the additional area will give the terminal substantial flexibility to deal with the increasing impact of weather-related issues and changes in the regulatory environment.
Complementing the capacity improvements are the upcoming arrivals of 16 new rubber-tired gantries in 2019, with the first eight RTGs available by April next year.
Two more super post Panamax quay cranes are expected to be delivered at the quay by next year. Three QCs were delivered earlier in the year, and are already operational.
The construction of berth 7 is part of ICTSI’s contractual obligations to upgrade, expand and develop the MICT under its contract with the PPA. Darwin G. Amojelar
ICTSI Group allocated more than $380 million in 2018 for capital expenditure, including the expansion of the Manila flagship project.
Businesses using the Port of Manila now have flexible options for their containerized cargo needs through a dedicated container freight station at NorthPort, and a logistics center within MICT.
From MICT and NorthPort, transfers are now possible through the Laguna Gateway Inland Container Terminal in Calamba and via barge and truck through the Cavite Gateway Terminal in Tanza.