ICTSI invests $800M in new Bauan terminal

THE International Container Terminal Services Inc. (I CTSI) is investing $800 million to construct a new international container terminal in Bauan, Batangas, marking it as the Philippines' second-largest facility.

Christian Gonzalez, ICTSI's executive vice president, highlighted the terminal's potential to enhance the region's economic landscape and solidify its position in global trade.

He said: «The new terminal represents a significant leap forward for Southern Luzon. We are building a world-class facility that will unlock a wave of economic benefits for the region and the country. It will create new employment opportunities and improve the quality of life for our host communities and the industries located around the terminal.»

Construction will start next year and the project is expected to be completed in 2027. Upon completion, the terminal will feature up to 900 meters of quay, at least eight ship-to-shore gantry cranes and an estimated capacity of over 2 million TEUs per annum.

The terminal's development is poised to stimulate economic growth in Southern Luzon.

Additionally, it aligns with the country's strategy for renewable energy transition in Southern Luzon.

The terminal will have extensive connectivity to expressways, facilitated by the completion of the Bauan-San Pascual-Batangas-STAR tollway diversion road and future expressway projects by Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. and San Miguel Corp.

The new terminal complements ICTSI's strategy of providing a national network of ports with ICTSI's brand of operational synergy that would further improve the country's supply chain and competitiveness in global trade.

Gonzalez acknowledged the support and vision of key stakeholders such as Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and Batangas Rep. Raneo Abu.

Strategically located in Bauan, Batangas, the terminal will serve as a premier gateway for shippers in the Calabarzon Region, leveraging its proximity to Manila and its natural cove setting.

Given Calabarzon's robust growth trajectory, with a 5.2 percent growth rate in 2023 and significant contributions to the national GDP, the terminal is poised to cater to capacity needs