The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) on Tuesday reported that the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) achieved a record volume of containers handled in October, underscoring its readiness for the peak holiday season.

In a statement on Tuesday, PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the milestone was driven by recent growth in foreign trade, as MICT handled an all-time high of 147,935 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) that is part of 275,028 TEUs tallied in October.

The MICT—the country’s sole dedicated container handling facility—is operated by the International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI).

Santiago attributed the accomplishment to the PPA’s partnership with ICTSI and the latter’s continued investments in infrastructure and equipment.

These recent upgrades include replacing two old quay cranes at Berths 3 and 3 and increasing the number of quay cranes at Berth 6 from five to six.

“Investing in larger, more advanced cranes is aimed at enhancing the terminal’s ability to accommodate larger container vessels and meeting the growing market demand,” he said.

In addition, the ICTSI is developing the port’s Berth 8, projected to boost the MICT’s annual capacity to 3.5 million TEUs by 2027.

“These upgrades ensure our terminals are ready to handle not only the seasonal surge but also the long-term growth in trade,” he said.

He highlighted the role of public-private partnerships, such as with ICTSI, in sustaining smooth operations in major terminals.

“ICTSI’s management of MICT, NorthPort Terminal, and Manila Multipurpose Terminal, alongside Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI) at the South Harbor Terminal, has improved Manila’s port efficiency through automation, real-time tracking, and infrastructure upgrades,” he said.

Advancements brought on by these partnerships have enhanced vessel productivity by enabling timely docking, unloading, and departure schedules.

Such efficiency, he said, is particularly critical during the holiday season when cargo volume surges.

“With modern infrastructure and close collaboration among stakeholders, our port system is resilient and efficient, prepared to support the economy during the peak season and beyond,” he said. (PNA)