The Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), is transforming the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) into a major trade hub for Western Visayas.
VCT, which started commercial operations of ICPC on April 1, 2024, enhanced the terminal’s infrastructure and productivity to position it as a key player in the region’s maritime trade.
The terminal has serviced some 40 vessels, including container ships, Ro-Ro and bulk carriers, mirroring the increased efficiency that underscores ICTSI’s global standard of port operation.
“Our operations are off to a good start thanks to the great team that we have here at VCT. Everyone worked tirelessly to get everything up and running, including the renovation of the terminal’s facilities, and set up of the systems needed to run the terminal within our desired standards,” VCT executive director Timothee Jeannin said.
“Customers can expect more improvements as we continue to deploy more equipment and complete the rest of the terminal upgrades in less than two months,” he said.
VCT operates with five reach stackers, four trailers and three prime movers. Additional equipment are set to arrive in the coming weeks, including five empty container handlers, 12 prime movers and 12 trailers.
VCT will deploy two mobile harbor cranes in September to further boost vessel operations. The terminal also looks to improve its bulk operations by investing in new bagging machines, clamshells, and additional mobile equipment for bulk cargo.
Catering to refrigerated cargo, VCT looks to complete the construction of its reefer stacks by August. The facility will have an initial capacity of 40 plugs, which will be increased accordingly based on demand.
VCT is also negotiating possible opportunities and connections with both domestic and international shipping lines services to and from Iloilo, aside from fast-tracking the remaining works at the terminal.
“We are proud to spearhead the transformation of the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex into a world-class maritime facility. At the same time, we are grateful for the opportunity to spur economic activity in the Visayas region and elevate the local communities that host our operations,” Jeannin said.