International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has invested more than US$20 million in Information Technology (IT) for the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) over the last 10 years.
“The hefty investments in technology are meant to crisis-proof the terminal, safeguard shipments and system processes, maximize the efficiency of its operations and maintain ICTSI’s world-class brand of customer service,” said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president.
Laying the groundwork for digitalisation at MICT in Philippines, ICTSI last year partnered with PLDT to develop 5G in the terminal.
MICT utilises automatic container weighing technology using spreader load cells in rubber tired gantries (RTG). This feature helps reduce the number of truck drivers in the port, as they no longer have to wait in line to use the terminal's weighbridges.
Other projects integrated into 5G include truck driver messaging, remote safety monitoring using intelligent surveillance systems and remote crane monitoring using Internet of Things devices and sensors. "This aims to improve the safety and efficiency of port operations and at the same time to reduce foot traffic inside the terminal," noted ICTSI.
In 2015, the global port operator launched the Terminal Appointment Booking System (TABS) at MICT aiming to facilitate the smooth flow of cargo in and out of port.
MICT is currently working on the TABS Manifesting System, which automatically records container data and truck plate numbers during the booking process. When the system is ready, drivers will not need to enter anything in the terminal kiosks upon arrival.
At the same time, another MICT application is under development. The new application is designed to give port users access to various services, such as Track & Trace on multiple ICTSI terminals, online payments and eventually TABS booking.
In addition, it will have features such as GPS location and ETA, geofenced gate-in and yard locations for drivers.
Recently, ICTSI tapped Rimini Street - a third-party support provider for Oracle and SAP - to provide support for critical business operations such as finance, treasury, asset tracking and equipment maintenance and repair.
Lastly, MICT is initiating the procedures to launch its online examination viewing portal, which will allow brokers to monitor the Bureau of Customs’ inspection of containers without being physically present at the terminal.
