To be constructed in phases, Berth 8 will greatly add to the MICT's capability to service foreign ultra-container vessels of up to 18,000 TEU, a trend that has been growing in the past years.

The new berth will create another 400 metres of quay along with 12 hectares of yard space that will bring an additional annual capacity of 200,000 TEU. When completed, the MICT will have an annual capacity of 3.5 million TEU, making the MICT the Philippines' largest international gateway. The full build will give the MICT a total berth length of 2,300 metres, a 21 pe rcent increase in berthing capacity.

ICTSI executive vice president Christian R Gonzalez said: "We are excited to announce the development of Berth 8, which enables us to be in the same league as the world's top terminals. More importantly, this will bring significant economic benefits to the Philippines as we have the added capacity to handle growing trade volumes."Along with equipment, Berth 8 is estimated to cost PHP15 billion (US$267 million). MICT is currently capable of handling neo-Panamax ships through berths 6 and 7, which are operated by five quay cranes (QC). A sixth crane is scheduled to arrive in July 2023 and will be operational within the year. Berth 8 will operate with a minimum of four QCs - two of which will be delivered in 2025.

Aside from the construction of Berth 8, ICTSI has commenced the modernization of Berths 1 to 5 and their backup and yard areas. The project includes the installation of additional reefer racks to accommodate approximately 300 TEU of reefer cargo.