International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) has officially launched the South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) in Batangas, marking the start of construction for the Philippines’ second-largest container facility. This US$800 million project, situated within the Bauan International Port, is designed to expand trade facilitation for Southern Luzon and the entire country while supporting regional industrial, manufacturing, and energy-related projects. The terminal aligns with the national “Build Better More” infrastructure program and will complement existing trade capabilities in Manila.
The facility is being developed in a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay to ensure operational stability, with a target completion date set for 2028. At full development, SLCT will feature an 800-meter quay, a 38-hectare yard, and an 18-meter berth depth, allowing it to handle ultra-large container vessels with an annual capacity exceeding two million TEUs. Phase 1 of the construction, focusing on marine works and a 425-meter quay for super post-Panamax operations, is scheduled to run through 2027.
Designed as a smart technology terminal, the site will be equipped with eight remote-controlled ship-to-shore cranes, 20 rail-mounted gantries, and 32 diesel-hybrid carriers. Accessibility to the terminal is provided via the Bauan–San Pascual–Batangas–STAR route and major South Luzon tollways, with further connectivity under consideration for the Cavite-to-Bauan corridor. The project represents a long-term collaboration between ICTSI and local government leaders to deliver critical infrastructure and increase throughput capacity within the ICTSI Philippine portfolio.