The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) today announced that the nation’s premier international container terminals are operating with high efficiency, reporting robust but manageable yard utilization rates as of October 6, 2025.
Data released by the PPA indicates that the Manila International Container Port (MICP) recorded a yard utilization rate of 76.69%, while the Port of Manila (POM), which includes Manila South Harbor, was at 61.11%. These figures reflect the current usage of available yard space at each location.
This stability comes as trade volumes typically surge ahead of the peak holiday “Ber” months (September to December), a period of heightened consumer demand and increased import activities.
Manila International Container Port (MICP): 76.69% Yard Utilization
The MICP’s utilization rate, while higher, is within the acceptable range for a major international gateway, especially during the pre-peak season. Terminal operators attribute the efficient management of this volume to continuous investments in new equipment, digitalization of processes, and optimized stacking strategies. The proactive management of container dwell times is critical to preventing artificial congestion.
Port of Manila (POM) / Manila South Harbor: 61.11% Yard Utilization
The Port of Manila maintains a significantly lower utilization rate, indicating ample spare capacity and smooth cargo flow. This operational efficiency is a testament to the effective collaboration between port operators, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), and logistics stakeholders.
PPA General Manager, Atty. Jay Daniel Santiago commented on the stable performance: “These utilization rates demonstrate that the Port of Manila is operating efficiently and is well-equipped to handle the expected surge in cargo volume throughout the final quarter of 2025. Our port operators and their strategic partners have been proactive in expanding capacity, deploying new technologies like advanced yard management systems, and streamlining gate processes to ensure the swift and seamless movement of goods.”
The PPA noted that the collective operational performance is a positive sign for the national supply chain, which is essential to stabilizing the cost of basic commodities and supporting the country’s projected economic growth for 2025.
PPA remains focused on its long-term strategy of modernization, which includes the continuous development of port infrastructure and the full digitalization of port-to-port and port-to-stakeholder transactions. These strategic improvements are designed to sustain an optimal operating environment, with a typical ideal utilization benchmark often cited around the 70% mark.
