ICTSI’s South Luzon Container Terminal fast taking shape

International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) is moving forward with the South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) in Bauan, Batangas, located some 120km south of Manila, with commercial operations targeted for 2028.

The $800m project will roll out in phases over two years and is set to become one of the Philippines’ largest container gateways. When fully operational, SLCT is expected to add up to 2m TEUs in annual capacity across ICTSI’s network.

SLCT is designed to make Southern Luzon more connected and competitive. By building capacity closer to manufacturing and export hubs, the project aims to reduce logistics steps, shorten lead times and expand options for shippers.

The site — currently operating as Bauan International Port and primarily serving roll-on/roll-off handling of completely built-up units — 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 metres to handle larger ships and improve schedule reliability.

Phase 1 covers marine works and the construction of a 425-metre quay equipped for super post-Panamax quay cranes. 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. The terminal will include an 11-hectare container yard, four remotely operated super post-Panamax quay cranes, four rail-mounted gantry (RMG) lanes with eight RMGs, ten container shuttle carriers, and dedicated operations and engineering facilities. A substation and power generation systems will support reliability and performance.

Located nine kilometres from Batangas City, SLCT will connect to major road corridors and planned expressways, positioning it as a key gateway for Calabarzon’s manufacturing and export base.