ICTSI expanding Manila terminal to handle 18,000 teu boxships

The Manila-headquartered terminal operating investing PHP15bn ($287m) in developing Berth 8 at Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) which will be able to handle vessels of up 18,000 teu.

The berth to be developed over two phases will have 400 m of berth and 12 hectares of yard space. The development is estimated to cost PHP15bn including equipment.

“The added capacity will allow us to stay ahead of demand and address the steadily increasing volume, a sure sign of economic recovery for our country.  Berth 8 will be a game-changer for the city; it will take Manila’s port capabilities to a whole new level with the ability to handle the larger capacity ships and the additional volume that comes with them,” said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI Executive Vice President.

Traditionally a regional port of call rather than serving mainline services the requirement to handle ultra-large containerships has not been necessary for MICT.

Berths 6 and 7 which came on stream in 2012 and 2014, respectively can handle neo-panamax vessels of up to 15,500 teu.

According to Gonzalez ICTSI is not obligated to build berth 8 under its contract with the Philippines Port Authority but is doing so to become more competitive in the face of globally trade.