Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), a unit of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) with operation at the Port of Iloilo, welcomed the first gearless vessel to call in the Western Visayas Region, signifying a new era in port operations and trade connectivity for the Visayas.
Operated by Regional Container Lines (RCL), the MV Otana Bhum made its inaugural call at VCT on January 9. A “gearless vessel” is described as a ship that does not have its own onboard cargo handling equipment, like cranes, meaning it relies on shore-based facilities at the port to load and unload cargo; essentially, a vessel that cannot independently load or unload its cargo without assistance from port cranes.
The call underscores VCT’s enhanced capabilities following the September 2024 delivery of two brand-new mobile harbor cranes (MHC) as part of ICTSI’s commitment to expanding and upgrading the terminal’s facilities. The MHCs are designed to handle the latest shipping requirements, enabling VCT to serve the larger gearless vessels.
The MV Otana Bhum has a length overall of 147 meters and has a capacity of 1,022 TEUs. It sails under the RCL Singapore-Philippines 6 (RSP6) service, which rotates through the ports of Singapore, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Cebu and Tagoloan and provides critical connections across key regional and international trade hubs.
“The arrival of RCL’s Otana Bhum not only highlights our port’s world-class capabilities but also demonstrates our commitment to fostering economic growth in the region. This development positions Iloilo as a key player in the Visayas, offering enhanced connectivity and efficient services for shipping lines and stakeholders,” said John Largo, VICT chief executive officer.
The vessel’s arrival represents a significant leap forward for the entire Visayas region as it sets the stage for increased trade opportunities, streamlined operations and strengthened global connectivity.
VCT’s modern facilities and ICTSI’s continuous investments reflect a shared vision of transforming Iloilo into a premiere international gateway, reducing reliance on transshipment ports and creating direct access to global markets.
Strategically located at the heart of Central Philippines’ high-growth regions, Visayas Container Terminal (VCT) features modernized infrastructure for enhanced connectivity. The terminal is supported by an extensive regional road network that helps drive regional trade and market expansion for Western Visayas’ leading agriculture and fisheries exports.
