ICTSI’s Manila International Container Terminal handled its first 2 millionth annual TEU in December 2016, setting a new record.

According to ICTSI, the 2 millionth container was offloaded from SITC Osaka, which had originated in Ningbo and is operated by Chinese carrier SITC Container Lines.

“Today represents a significant achievement for MICT as we continue with our mandate to provide the highest level of service to our clients and stakeholders, most especially to the Filipino people,” said Christian R. Gonzalez, senior vice president and regional head of Asia Pacific and MICT at ICTSI [centre in photo]. “As the gateway to the Philippine market, MICT consistently seeks to improve our operational efficiency to ensure fast and uninterrupted flow of trade in and out of the port.”

The milestone triggers a multi-billion peso commitment with the Philippine Ports Authority to improve capacity by commissioning five additional post-Panamax quay cranes and building at least another berth by 2019.

The operator attributed the performance to the completion of Yard 7 towards the end of 2015, which increased the terminal’s annual capacity from 2.5 million TEUs to 2.75 million TEUs, as well as to the launch of its online Terminal Appointment Booking System.

“The construction of Yard 7 and the implementation of TABS last year gave us the flexibility and efficiency we need to perform optimally,” said Gonzalez. “We have more projects in the pipeline like the revival of the rail line which will link MICT with Laguna Gateway Inland Container Terminal.”