International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) has officially launched the South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) as construction for the Philippines’ second largest terminal goes into full swing.
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The USD 800 million terminal, located about 110 kilometers south of Manila, within the Bauan International Port in Batangas, will expand trade facilitation capabilities not only of Southern Luzon but of the country entire. It will support industrial and manufacturing activities including cargo requirements associated with energy‑related and industrial projects in the region. The terminal will also complement Manila’s trade facilitation capabilities.
The launch was led by Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez, and Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.
Other government officials in attendance included Public Works and Highways Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon; 2nd District of Batangas Representative Gerville R. Luistro; Batangas Vice Governor Hermilando I. Mandanas; Bauan Mayor Wendah Katrina R. Dolor; and Bauan Vice Mayor Jennelle Claresta Guenn S. Abante. Atty. Jay Daniel R. Santiago, PPA general manager, represented the Philippine Ports Authority.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama also attended the event.
Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI Executive Vice President, led officers and staff of the ICTSI Group who were also present.
Gonzalez acknowledged the support of national and local officials and agencies.
“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 occupies a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay, which is expected to provide operational stability as the development advances toward its target 2028 completion and prepares for ultra‑large container vessel capability.
At full development, SLCT will have an 800‑meter quay, 38 hectares of yard, and an 18‑meter berth depth, and a terminal capacity that will exceed two million TEUs annually.
Phase 1 construction consists of marine works and construction of a 425‑meter quay designed for super post‑Panamax operations. Construction is scheduled from May to September 2027, with equipment delivery and installation targeted for August 2027. Upon reaching operational readiness, SLCT is expected to contribute added throughput capacity within ICTSI’s Philippine portfolio and support long‑term network planning.
Envisioned as a smart technology terminal, the facility features a suite of advanced equipment, including eight remote-controlled ship-to-shore cranes, 20 rail-mounted gantries, and 32 diesel-hybrid carriers and handlers.
Accessibility to SLCT is directly through the Bauan–San Pascual–Batangas–STAR route and major South Luzon tollways with additional transport connectivity under consideration for the Cavite‑to‑Bauan corridor.
The SLCT project aligns with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Build Better More infrastructure programme.