Currently under phase two development, MICT’s berth 8 has a design depth of 15 meters that will enable the terminal to handle foreign ultra-large container vessels with capacities of up to 18,000 TEUs. MICT can take neo-Panamax ships through berths 6 and 7, operated by five quay cranes (QC). A sixth crane will arrive in July and be operational within the year. Berth 8 will work with at least four QCs – two of which will be delivered in 2025.
Optimistic of welcoming large container vessels
“We are optimistic of the prospect of welcoming ultra-large container vessels at the Port of Manila and are preparing to accommodate the added volume that these more efficient ships will bring. With these developments, our goal is to outpace demand and ensure the efficient flow of trade from the port to the local supply chain. We thank the PPA for supporting our initiatives to continuously raise the standard of ports and maritime trade in the country,” said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president.
The expansion will also increase MICT’s capacity by 200,000 TEUs to 3.5 million TEUs, which will be key in addressing the increase in cargo volume as the country’s economy fully reopens. In addition, the new berth will add 400 meters of quay along with 12 hectares of yard space that will be constructed in phases.
“Giving our customers visibility over their cargo empowers them to make better business decisions. It also enhances stakeholder coordination, which could help us further improve the services that we offer,” explained Mr. Gonzalez.