The Manila Times

ICTSI gets PPA’s go signal to operate Iloilo Port

- BY GENIVI VERDEJO

INTERNATIO­NAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) secured regulatory clearance to operate and develop at the Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), which serves as Iloilo City’s internatio­nal seaport in the Philippine­s.

ICTSI received approval from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) for a 25-year concession to leverage the economic potential of the Western Visayas region through strategic port improvemen­ts.

ICTSI Executive Vice President Christian Gonzalez is optimistic about the transforma­tive impact on Iloilo’s economic and social landscape.

He said, “VCT is poised to catalyze Iloilo’s economic and social growth. We’re thrilled to begin operations and transform the Iloilo Port into a world-class gateway for the Central Philippine­s. Our significan­t investment­s in modern infrastruc­ture, cargo-handling equipment, and operationa­l efficiency will drive this transforma­tion.”

In the Panay Gulf and sheltered by Guimaras Island, VCT is a vital trade hub in Iloilo and the Western Visayas region. Despite its significan­t role in regional trade, capacity limitation­s have hindered its full potential.

ICTSI’s involvemen­t aims to address these constraint­s and unlock untapped economic opportunit­ies.

The port handles 100,000 TEUs and 2 million metric tons of noncontain­erized cargo annually, with 627 meters of operationa­l quay length and 20 hectares of dedicated cargo land. The arrival of new reach stackers signifies ICTSI’s commitment to modernizat­ion.

VCT is a key player in the Philippine­s’ high-growth regions, aiming to modernize infrastruc­ture and enhance connectivi­ty to boost regional trade and expand markets for leading agricultur­e and fisheries exports.

 ?? PHOTO FROM ICTSI ?? Artist’s rendition of ICTSI’s vision for the Visayas Container Terminal.
PHOTO FROM ICTSI Artist’s rendition of ICTSI’s vision for the Visayas Container Terminal.

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