ICTSI advances construction of container terminal in Batangas

Philippines-based International Container Terminal Services Inc has commenced construction on the South Luzon Container Terminal, a P47.8bn ($800m/€742m) project in Batangas designed to complement Metro Manila's main port and expand export capacity for Calabarzon, the country's industrial belt, with the first construction phase scheduled from May to September 2027 and full completion targeted for 2028.

Inquirer.net reported that Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez led the construction launch at the Bauan International Port last week, confirming the project is now in full swing. At full development, the SLCT will feature an 800-metre quay, 38 hectares of yard, 18-metre berth depth and terminal capacity exceeding two million TEUs annually.

Lopez stated the facility will be equipped with advanced equipment including eight remote-controlled ship-to-shore cranes, 20 rail-mounted gantries and 32 diesel-hybrid carriers and handlers. The development occupies a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay, expected to provide operational stability as construction advances toward the 2028 completion target and prepares for ultra-large container vessel capability.

Calabarzon comprises Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon provinces, serving as the Philippines' manufacturing hub hosting many economic zones and contributing more than 20% of the country's total industrial output. The terminal will support logistics requirements for manufacturers operating within the region's industrial estates.

The project represents significant capital investment in port infrastructure addressing capacity constraints at Metro Manila's existing facilities. The Batangas location provides strategic positioning for manufacturers seeking efficient export routes whilst reducing congestion at Manila's primary container handling operations.

ICTSI operates container terminals globally, with the South Luzon Container Terminal marking major expansion of Philippines-based capacity serving manufacturing and export sectors. The facility's specifications target accommodation of next-generation container vessels requiring deeper berths and advanced cargo handling systems.

View complete technical specifications and development timeline for the container terminal project.