Visayas Port Welcomes First Gearless Vessel

Visayas Container Terminal (VCT), operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) at the Port of Iloilo, welcomed the first gearless vessel to dock in the Western Visayas.

The MV Otana Bhum, operated by Regional Container Lines (RCL), made its inaugural call at VCT on January 9, marking a milestone in port operations and trade connectivity for the region.

This achievement highlights VCT’s enhanced capabilities following the September 2024 delivery of two new mobile harbor cranes. The cranes, part of ICTSI’s commitment to modernizing the terminal, are designed to handle larger, gearless vessels and meet the latest shipping requirements.

The MV Otana Bhum measures 147 meters in length and has a capacity of 1,022 TEUs. It operates under the RCL Singapore-Philippines 6 (RSP6) service, connecting ports in Singapore, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Cebu, and Tagoloan, strengthening regional and international trade links.

“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,” said John Largo, VICT chief executive officer.

Largo added that this development positions Iloilo as a key player in the Visayas by providing enhanced connectivity and efficient services for shipping lines and stakeholders.

The vessel’s arrival is expected to boost trade opportunities, streamline operations, and strengthen global connectivity across the Visayas.

ICTSI’s continuous investments in VCT reflect a shared vision of transforming Iloilo into a premier international gateway. This effort aims to reduce reliance on transshipment ports and provide direct access to global markets.