Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) business unit in Iloilo, recently put into operation two new mobile harbor cranes (MHC), the first of their kind in Panay Island.
These are expected to enhance Iloilo port’s role as a competitive and efficient trade gateway for Western Visayas.
Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president, commented, “The flexibility offered by these MHCs will allow us to deliver an immense improvement in service to our clients. By providing state-of-the-art resources, we are enabling our people to achieve results beyond the ordinary for the greater good of our stakeholders and the local economy.”
Vice Mayor Ganzon said the new cranes will significantly boost Iloilo’s economy by opening local industries to national and international markets. “With VCT’s increased operational efficiency, greater cargo handling capacity, and enhanced connectivity, this will allow our businesses to meet the rising demand of our thriving local economy and bolster our competitiveness in national and international trade,” he stated.
Manufactured by Konecranes, each of the two new ESP.5 Gottwald MHCs has a reach of 46 meters and a lifting capacity of 100 tons. They are expected to boost the terminal’s ability to handle the increasing volume of containerized, bulk, general, and project cargo in the region. The new technology is anticipated to streamline operations, leading to faster turnaround times for vessels and trucks, improved safety, and greater port efficiency.
To expertly utilize the new cranes, ICTSI provided training for VCT personnel on crane operation and maintenance at its flagship Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and South Pacific International Container Terminal (SPICT) in Lae, Papua New Guinea.
The new cranes are part of ICTSI’s ongoing modernization plan for VCT. Alongside the cranes, Visayas Container Terminal has acquired new reach stackers, trailers, prime movers, and empty container handlers. The terminal is also expanding its bulk operations with additional bagging machines, clamshells, and mobile equipment. Additionally, VCT is building reefer stacks to meet the growing demand for refrigerated cargo.
Gonzalez highlighted that “ICTSI has always been committed to investing in the Philippines, and we were particularly drawn to Iloilo because of its advantageous location, dynamic leadership, business-centricity and growth potential.”
VCT is ICTSI’s first operation in Central Philippines. In January 2024, the Philippine Ports Authority granted the company a 25-year concession to operate and develop the Iloilo port into a modern and efficient trade gateway.
