More equipment for VCT

Visayas Container Terminal (VCT) in Central Philippines, operated by the International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), is making progress towards transforming the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) into a more competitive and efficient trade gateway for Western Visayas.

Since commencing commercial operations on 1 April, the terminal has serviced some 40 vessels, including container ships, Ro-Ro and bulk carriers.

VCT currently operates with five reach stackers, four trailers and three prime movers. Additional equipment is set to arrive within the coming weeks, including five empty container handlers, 12 prime movers and 12 trailers. VCT will deploy two mobile harbour cranes in September to further boost vessel operations.

The terminal also looks to improve its bulk operations by investing in new bagging machines, clamshell grabs and additional mobile equipment for bulk cargo.

Catering to refrigerated cargo, VCT looks to complete the construction of its reefer stacks by August. The facility will have an initial capacity of 40 plugs, which will be increased accordingly based on demand.

“Our operations are off to a good start thanks to the great team that we have here at VCT. Everyone worked tirelessly to get everything up and running, including the renovation of the terminal’s facilities, and set up of the systems needed to run the terminal within our desired standards. Customers can expect more improvements as we continue to deploy more equipment and complete the rest of the terminal upgrades in less than two months,” said Timothee Jeannin, VCT executive director.

Besides fast-tracking the remaining works at the terminal, VCT is negotiating possible opportunities and connections with both domestic and international shipping lines services to and from Iloilo.

“We are proud to spearhead the transformation of the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex into a world-class maritime facility. At the same time, we are grateful for the opportunity to spur economic activity in the Visayas region and elevate the local communities that host our operations,” said Jeannin.

In April, ICTSI secured the green light from regulatory authorities to operate and develop the Visayas Container Terminal under a 25 year concession.