Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation in Central Philippines, has made progress towards transforming the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC).
Since commencing commercial operations on 1 April, VCT has worked to enhance the terminal’s infrastructure and productivity, reported ICTSI. The terminal has serviced 40 vessels, including containerships, RoRo, and bulk carriers.
VCT currently operates with five reach stackers, four trailers and three prime movers. Additional equipment is set to arrive within the coming weeks, including five empty container handlers, 12 prime movers and 12 trailers.
VCT will deploy two mobile harbour 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.
The terminal looks to complete the construction of its reefer stacks by August to cater for refrigerated cargo. The facility will have an initial capacity of 40 plugs, which will be increased based on demand.
Moreover, VCT is negotiating possible opportunities and connections with domestic and international shipping lines services to and from Iloilo.
Making ICPC more competitive will enable the port to attract a wider range of shipping lines and unlock more cargo destinations for the Western Visayas trade, according to ICTSI.
“Our operations are off to a good start thanks to the great team that we have here at VCT,” said Timothee Jeannin, VCT Executive Director.
“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. 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.”
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“We are proud to spearhead the transformation of the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex into a world-class maritime facility,” added Jeannin.
“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.”
More recently, DP World and Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) announced the launch of the Tanza Barge Terminal in Cavite, the Philippines.