The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has agreed to expand the capacity of the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), the flagship operation of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI).
On October 15, the first phase of construction will begin on berths seven and eight at the terminal.
Each of the berths will have a controlling depth of 13.5 to 14.5 metres, increasing the capacity of MICT and its ability to service the world’s largest container ships.
Jupiter Kalambakal, of ICTSI, discusses the Manila Terminal in a recent Port Technology technical paper
In addition to the berth expansion planned for October 2018, a second phase of construction will add further yard space for the future berths nine and ten.
ICTSI also plans to implement 16 new rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) at the terminal in 2019, with the first eight RTG’s available by April.
As well as this order, two more super post Panamax quay cranes are expected to be delivered to MICT by 2019.
James Caldwell explains why smarter ports are needed in a recent Port Technology technical paper
The construction of berth seven is part of ICTSI’s contractual obligations to upgrade, expand and develop MICT.
In 2018, ICTSI has allocated more than USD $380 million for capital expenditure, including the expansion of the Manila flagship.
Christian R. Gonzalez, Global Corporate Head of ICTSI, said: “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 a steady increase in vessel size, the consolidation of major shipping players, and the introduction of rail services.”
