International Container Terminal Services, Inc.'s (ICTSI) operation in Iloilo, Philippines, the Visayas Container Terminal (VCT) is undergoing upgrades in preparation for the arrival of two new mobile harbour cranes (MHC) that will allow it to handle larger containerships.

The Manila-headquartered port operator said that following the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) 's grant of a 25-year concession in April, it continues to expedite facility upgrades, IT system implementation, and deployment of other modern cargo handling equipment at VCT.

[Source: ICTSI]

"VCT is far from the terminal we took over six months ago. We've not only improved the facilities but also grown our team to over 240 organic personnel, who undergo continuous training to ensure top-tier service," said Timothee Jeannin, executive director at VCT. 

"We also continue to expand our equipment fleet, which includes the upcoming MHCs and the recently delivered reach stackers, chassis and forklifts – all part of our commitment to transform VCT into a world-class port," he added.

Scheduled to arrive by the first week of September, the MHCs will enable VCT to handle new-generation vessels and cater to the increased volume.

They will be the largest and first such equipment in Panay and the entire Region 6 in the Philippines.

ICTSI noted that dredging along the berths is also set to commence later in the month to increase depth capacity in preparation for the arrival of larger ships.

VCT's container yard is currently equipped with 33 reefer plugs, which will double in the next two weeks in anticipation of increased demand for perishable goods and potential exports from Panay.

The container freight station bustles with warehousing activities by freight forwarders.

VCT currently operates with five new reach stackers, two three-tonner forklifts, six prime movers, two side lifters, a skid loader and a backhoe. Two five-tonner forklifts are scheduled to arrive also in September, followed by a 30-tonner forklift in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Other projects in the pipeline for the year include further rehabilitation of the container yard, improvement of engineering facilities and offices, and development of multipurpose and recreational spaces for employees.

VCT also launched initiatives like the greening of the terminal, which aims to plant 100,000 trees and plants within the first year.

ICTSI said it partnered with local schools in Iloilo for the training and development of potential manpower.

"VCT is also currently working with the Philippine Ports Authority - Iloilo to remove derelict vessels and materials from the port’s vicinity to maximize space utilization," ICTSI added.