By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has invested P11 million in upgrading the Visayas Container Terminal (VCT) since taking over operations in April, with further investments planned to enhance the facility’s capacity and boost commercial activity.
According to Timothee Jeannin, terminal head of VCT, the funds have been allocated to civil infrastructure (P1.9 million), equipment (P8.6 million), and information technology improvements.
ICTSI has committed an additional P27 million for further developments this year, including P8.47 million for infrastructure upgrades such as quay, yard, and terminal expansions.
A significant portion—P17.82 million—will be used to purchase new equipment, including two mobile harbor cranes, five reach stackers, two empty handlers, and 15 tractors and trailers.
ICTSI has also earmarked $450 million in capital expenditures for terminal expansions, with $9.9 million designated for VCT.
“Our priorities include securing state-of-the-art equipment and enhancing manpower training,” Jeannin said, noting that these efforts are critical for maintaining operational efficiency at the terminal.
Recent commercial developments include the introduction of the International Container Line SITC’s direct service from China to Iloilo and a co-loading agreement between Cheng Lie Navigation Company and Regional Container Lines.
VCT now serves 14 domestic and 10 foreign shipping lines, handling both containerized and non-containerized cargo.
“The introduction of new international trade routes and partnerships with major shipping lines is set to bolster the region’s economic prospects,” Jeannin added.
New Cranes and Infrastructure Enhancements
In September, VCT received two new ESP.5 Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbor cranes (MHC), the first of their kind in Panay.
Deployed at Berth 1, these cranes have a reach of 46 meters and a lifting capacity of 100 tons, significantly increasing the terminal’s ability to handle larger cargo volumes.
The installation of 66 reefer plugs has further boosted VCT’s capacity to manage perishable goods, supporting increased trade with China and other foreign countries.
Additionally, civil works have deepened Berth 1 to 11.5 meters, with Berths 2, 3, and 4 now at 10.5 meters. Dredging of the remaining berths is expected to be completed within two weeks.
The terminal also installed two weighbridges, similar to those at Subic Bay International Terminal and Manila International Container Terminal.
