Port operator Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) said it is capping 2016 on a high note, bannered by record-breaking volume, highest terminal productivity, and fastest service delivery as it continues to keep commodities flowing in support of the Philippine economy.
ATI, in a statement, said Manila South Harbor set a new record on December 15, as it broke through the 1 million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) mark for the first time in a single year, driven by robust volume growth and world-class terminal production.
Manila South Harbor’s one-millionth TEU was delivered by MV Cape Faro of Evergreen Line, whose officers, crew, and shipping line representatives were recognized in ceremonies held quayside to mark the event.
“We achieved this very significant milestone at record-breaking pace, with more container space and ample berths to spare for the industry,” ATI executive vice president Andrew Hoad said.
Hoad stressed that Manila South Harbor has more than sufficient capacity to handle more volume at present and in the future, especially with the delivery of two brand-new quay cranes and additional port equipment by next year.
Entering Christmas week, Manila South Harbor has been operating at an optimum level with yard utilization averaging below 70% and berth occupancy averaging below 65%. Despite the significant increase in volume, ATI said its production has averaged above the industry standard of 25 gross moves per crane per hour (gmph), and even recorded world-class levels of over 30 gmph for several months.
The port operator said these statistics are comparable with efficiency levels of global trade gateways in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai, which means there is no reason for any delays to imports via Manila South Harbor this peak season.
“It has been the best December for Manila South Harbor,” Hoad added, as he encouraged more shipping lines to call the port and avail of its efficiencies.
“We thank our dockworkers, customers, port authorities and partners for this record achievement as we look forward to working again with our supply chain stakeholders for another successful year in 2017,” Hoad said.
