INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services, Inc's (ICTSI) business unit in Iloilo, Philippines, Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), recently put into operation two new mobile harbour cranes (MHC), the first of their kind in Panay Island.

These are expected to enhance Iloilo port's role as a competitive and efficient trade gateway for Western Visayas, said ICTSI in a statement.

Christian R Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president, said: "These new cranes, the largest and most modern in Panay Island, represent our commitment to pursue a culture of efficiency and advancement.

"The flexibility offered by these MHCs will allow us to deliver an immense improvement in service to our clients. By providing state-of-the-art resources, we are enabling our people to achieve results beyond the ordinary for the greater good of our stakeholders and the local economy."

Manufactured by Konecranes, each of the two new ESP 5 Gottwald MHCs has a reach of 46 metres and a lifting capacity of 100 tonnes. The new technology is expected to streamline operations, leading to faster turnaround times for vessels and trucks, improved safety, and greater port efficiency.

To expertly utilize the new cranes, ICTSI provided training for VCT personnel on crane operation and maintenance at its flagship Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and at South Pacific International Container Terminal (SPICT) in Lae, Papua New Guinea.

VCT is ICTSI's first operation in Central Philippines. In January 2024, the Philippine Ports Authority granted ICTSI a 25-year concession to operate and develop the Iloilo port into a modern and efficient trade gateway.