ICTSI launches $800m South Luzon Container Terminal

The $800 million facility is located around 110 kilometres south of Manila within the Bauan International Port in Batangas.

Once completed, the terminal is expected to expand container-handling capacity in Southern Luzon while supporting the country’s broader trade and logistics network.

The launch ceremony was led by Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, alongside several national and local officials.

Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI Executive Vice President, led the company’s delegation and acknowledged the support of government agencies and local authorities involved in the project.

“It’s never easy to take the first step. Having a vision is one thing, but making it happen on the ground requires strong partnership with local leaders who are committed to delivering critical infrastructure,” he said.

“We hope that what we unveil today will inspire everyone and demonstrate what can be achieved through long-term collaboration and commitment.”

SLCT is situated within a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay. The site is expected to offer operational stability as the project progresses towards its target completion in 2028 and prepares to handle ultra-large container vessels.

At full development, the terminal will feature an 800-metre quay, 38 hectares of yard space, and an 18-metre berth depth. Annual capacity is projected to exceed 2 million TEUs.

Phase 1 includes marine works and the construction of a 425-metre quay designed for super post-Panamax operations.

Construction is scheduled to take place between May and September 2027, with equipment delivery and installation targeted for August 2027.

The terminal is also planned as a smart technology facility, equipped with eight remote-controlled ship-to-shore cranes, 20 rail-mounted gantries, and 32 diesel-hybrid carriers and handlers.

Road access to the terminal will be provided through the Bauan–San Pascual–Batangas–STAR route and major South Luzon tollways, with additional connectivity under consideration through the Cavite-to-Bauan corridor.

The project forms part of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Build Better More infrastructure programme.