ICTSI proposes $30M barge, RoRo terminal in Cavite

MANILA, Philippines – The Enrique Razon Jr-led International Container Terminal Services, Incorporated (ICTSI) has proposed to develop a common-user barge and roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) terminal in Cavite, which will cost upwards of $30 million.

ICTSI said the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is now studying the project dubbed Cavite Gateway Terminal.

The listed port operator said the proposed Cavite Gateway Terminal will support government initiatives to decongest Manila’s streets by reducing truck traffic on roads around the metropolitan area.

The proposed terminal will be located within a 6-hectare property in Tanza, Cavite.

“It will have a level of integration with other major Luzon port facilities for more cost-effective and time-bound access to the Cavite market for both inbound and outbound cargo,” ICTSI said in a statement on Thursday, December 15.

Cavite was identified as the prime location for such a project primarily because of the province’s high economic density.

In addition to the Cavite Export Processing Zone, which houses over 400 actively operating companies, ICTSI said there are multiple areas of planned development within Cavite that can justify its investment in a barge and RoRo terminal.

ICTSI said the first phase of the proposed development will support a total throughput of 115,000 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per year.

“The net effect of transshipping cargo from Manila’s ports to Cavite via barge and RoRo equates to approximately 140,000 fewer truck trips plying city roads on an annual basis,” the Razon-led firm added.

ICTSI also highlighted some sustainable environmental and social benefits of its proposal.

“The reduction in traffic congestion leads to lower fuel consumption and a significant decrease in carbon emissions,” the port operator said.

ICTSI’s portfolio of terminals and projects spans developed and emerging market economies in the Asia Pacific, the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Africa. – Rappler.com