MICT handles record October volume

Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), the Philippines' sole dedicated container handling facility, recorded its highest monthly throughput in October.

According to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), MICT handled 275,028 TEUs last month, reflecting an increase in the country’s foreign trade activity. Import volumes at MICT also reached a new all-time monthly high of 147,935 TEUs.

The new records follow recent infrastructure investments, including the replacement of quay cranes at Berths 3 and 4 and the addition of another crane at Berth 6. These improvements aim to accommodate larger vessels at the Port of Manila and meet growing trade demand. Construction of Berth 8 is ongoing. Upon completion in 2027, the new berth will increase MICT’s capacity to 3.5 million TEUs.

Despite the demand surge during the peak season, yard utilization at MICT remained healthy at 77 percent in October, with gross crane productivity averaging 26 moves per hour. The PPA highlighted these operational metrics as an indication of the terminal’s preparedness to manage seasonal and long-term cargo growth.

Container dwell time at MICT remains within three to five days, preventing artificial congestion. Faster truck turnaround times, supported by gate infrastructure and technology upgrades, streamline cargo flow. Coordination with local government units also contributes to the efficient movement of goods in and out of the port during peak periods.

The PPA attributes MICT’s performance to ongoing collaboration with ICTSI and its sustained efforts to enhance port operations. These efforts include the deployment of automated systems and real-time tracking to support vessel productivity and cargo handling.