International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) on Friday said construction of the US$800-million South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) in Batangas is underway, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2028.
The new terminal is being built at the Bauan International Port, about 110 kilometers south of Manila. Once fully developed, it is projected to become the second-largest container terminal in the Philippines.
ICTSI, led by businessman Enrique K. Razon Jr., said the project aims to improve trade and logistics in the country, particularly for industrial and energy projects in Southern Luzon. It will also help ease pressure on ports in Manila.
ICTSI executive vice president Christian R. Gonzalez said the project shows what can be achieved through cooperation with local leaders to build key infrastructure.
The terminal is located in a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay, which the company said will help ensure stable operations and allow the port to handle ultra-large container ships in the future.
When fully completed, the facility will have an 800-meter quay, 38 hectares of container yard, and 18-meter berth depth, with capacity of more than two million TEUs per year.
The first phase will include marine works and the construction of a 425-meter quay designed for large container vessels. Construction is expected to run from May to September 2027, with equipment installation planned for August 2027.
ICTSI said the terminal will use advanced technology, including remote-controlled ship-to-shore cranes, rail-mounted gantries, and diesel-hybrid carriers.
The port will be accessible through the Bauan–San Pascual–Batangas–STAR route and major South Luzon tollways, with additional transport links being studied for a Cavite-to-Bauan corridor.
