ICTSI’s Business Unit in Iloilo Ushers in a New Era of Efficiency

​Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), an International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) business unit in Iloilo, recently installed two new mobile harbor cranes (MHC), the first of their kind on Panay Island. These are planned to strengthen the Iloilo port's position as a competitive and efficient commerce gateway for Western Visayas.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the cranes’ start of operation. This was led by Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., Iloilo provincial governor; Jeffrey P. Ganzon, Iloilo City vice mayor; Raisa Treñas-Chu, delegate of Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas; Atty. Jay Daniel R. Santiago, Philippine Ports Authority general manager; and Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president.  Joining them were Timothee Jeannin, outgoing VCT executive director, and John Alexander Rhoss Largo, incoming VCT chief executive officer.

Mr. Gonzalez said: “These new cranes, the largest and most modern in Panay Island, represent our commitment to pursue a culture of efficiency and advancement. 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.”

Konecranes built each of the two new ESP.5 Gottwald MHCs, which have a reach of 46 meters and a lifting capability of 100 tons. They will improve VCT's ability to manage the growing volume of containerized, bulk, general, and project cargo in the region. The new technology is designed to expedite operations, resulting in shorter turnaround times for vessels and trucks, increased safety, and improved port efficiency.

To ensure that the new cranes are used effectively, ICTSI trained VCT personnel on crane operation and maintenance at its flagship Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and the South Pacific International Container Terminal (SPICT) in Lae, Papua New Guinea.

The new MHCs are part of ICTSI's continuous modernization effort for VCT. Along with the cranes, VCT has purchased new reach stackers, trailers, prime movers, and empty container handlers. The terminal is also growing its bulk operations by adding new bagging machines, clamshells, and mobile equipment. Furthermore, VCT is constructing reefer stacks to accommodate the increased demand for refrigerated freight.

VCT's commitment to Iloilo includes local hiring and relationships with local contractors, which help to strengthen the community and boost regional economic growth.

Meanwhile, the ICTSI Foundation, the company's social responsibility arm, works to enhance community bonds by promoting youth development, environmental conservation, and social assistance in Iloilo City. These demonstrate VCT's commitment to not only improving Iloilo's port infrastructure but also promoting long-term economic growth and community development.

Mr. Gonzalez adds: “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 . . . It goes without saying that we hope to pay back your trust and hospitality by becoming an engaged and responsible member of the Iloilo community.”

VCT is ICTSI's first activity in the Central Philippines. In January 2024, the Philippine Ports Authority awarded ICTSI a 25-year concession to operate and develop the Iloilo port as a modern and efficient commercial gateway.