Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Rising Tide: ICTSI's 25-Year Concession Ushers in a New Era for Iloilo Port






It's a new dawn for the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) as the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) awards International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) with a 25-year concession contract. This is a significant stride towards transforming the ICPC into a modern, efficient, and premier gateway for Western Visayas.


The PPA's decision to award ICTSI with a 25-year concession contract is the catalyst for change at Iloilo Port. The bid to operate ICPC in accordance with PPA Administrative Order (AO) 03-2016, or the Port Terminal Management Regulatory Framework (PTMRF), was solely ICTSI's.


Stepping into the reins of Iloilo Port, ICTSI executive vice president Christian R. Gonzalez expressed his elation and gratitude. He outlined a comprehensive proposal for infrastructure upgrades, efficient cargo-handling equipment, and operational measures to transform the port into a premier gateway.


ICPC is located at the heart of Iloilo City, serving the province of Iloilo and the entire Panay Island. Despite being one of the safest harbors in the country, capacity efficiency constraints have hampered its full potential. ICTSI's involvement aims to unlock this economic engine.


The Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), the future name of the facility, has 627 meters of operational quay length and 20 hectares of land for cargo storage, warehousing, and handling activities. ICTSI will focus on improving terminal productivity and service quality through infrastructure development.


Local leaders have expressed their bullishness about ICTSI's vision for Iloilo Port. Senator Franklin Drilon, a native of Iloilo, noted that ICTSI's impressive track record positions the company to efficiently manage the ports and address longstanding congestion issues.


With ICTSI at the helm, Iloilo is set to become a key driver of economic progress in the Philippines. Drilon sees immense potential in transforming Iloilo into an international gateway, fostering trade, job creation, business expansion, and regional connectivity.


The enhancement of VCT's infrastructure will undoubtedly facilitate a surge in international container ship arrivals and streamline the flow of goods in and out of the port. This strategic move by the PPA, in collaboration with ICTSI, is expected to lead to a revitalized and efficient port complex in Iloilo.


ICTSI's 25-year concession sets the stage for a new chapter in Iloilo Port's history. As we anticipate the transformation of ICPC into a modern, efficient, and premier gateway, we can look forward to a brighter future for the Western Visayas region.


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