ICTSI on track to complete Batangas port

MANILA, Philippines — International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) of tycoon Enrique Razon Jr. is progressing with the development of the $800-million South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) project in Batangas, with its commercial operations eyed by 2028.

ICTSI said the project, which will roll out in phases over two years, would add up to two million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in annual capacity across ICTSI’s network once fully operational.

Set to become one of the country’s largest container gateways, SLCT is designed to make Southern Luzon more connected and competitive.

It will connect to major road corridors and planned expressways, positioning it as a key gateway for Calabarzon’s manufacturing and export base.

“By building capacity closer to manufacturing and export hubs, the project aims to reduce logistics steps, shorten lead times and expand options for shippers,” ICTSI said.

The project’s site, currently operating as Bauan International Port, is being converted into a modern container terminal capable of accommodating ultra-large container vessels.

SLCT will have a controlling depth of up to 18 meters to handle larger ships and improve schedule reliability.

Phase 1 covers marine works and the construction of a 425-meter quay equipped for super post-Panamax quay cranes.

ICTSI said construction is scheduled from May to September 2027, followed by the delivery and installation of container-handling equipment by August of the same year.

At the completion of Phase 1, SLCT is planned to have an initial capacity of 800,000 TEUs.