Manila, Philippines

Port Overview

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is strategically located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. It is the second-most populous city in the country and a major economic hub. As part of the National Capital Region, Manila plays a crucial role in the country's economic and political activities. The Port of Manila is one of the busiest ports in Southeast Asia, handling significant cargo volumes. However, specific annual TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit) capacity figures for Manila's ports are not readily available in this context.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Manila’s main port facilities include three key terminals: Manila North Harbor (primarily domestic cargo), Manila South Harbor (international cargo), and Manila International Container Terminal (MICT, focused on containerized cargo). The port features 12 piers, 22 berths, and advanced cargo handling equipment such as ship-to-shore cranes, rubber-tired gantry cranes, and reach stackers. MICT is equipped with automated gates and yard management systems, but does not currently use AGVs. The port handles containers, bulk, breakbulk, and Ro-Ro cargo.

Container Terminals

Manila's container terminals include the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), operated by International Container Terminal Services, Inc. MICT has several berths, with ongoing expansion to include Berth 8, enhancing its capacity to 3.5 million TEUs annually. The terminal features advanced automation with automated lanes and optical character recognition portals. Major operators include ICTSI and Asian Terminals Incorporated at the Manila South Harbor.

Port Services

Main Services at Manila, Philippines

• Container Handling: Comprehensive container operations at Manila International Container Terminal, including loading, unloading, and transshipment of both full and less-than-container loads.
• Cargo Operations: Bulk, breakbulk, and project cargo handling across all terminals, with specialized equipment for oversized and heavy-lift items.
• Ship Services: Provisioning, bunkering, ship repair, and agency services for vessels calling at Manila’s piers and berths.
• Warehousing: Modern storage facilities, 24/7 container yards, and high-capacity warehousing for temporary cargo holding and distribution.
• Customs: Full customs clearance, documentation preparation, regulatory compliance, and liaison with authorities to expedite import/export processes.

Global Connectivity

Global Connectivity

The Port of Manila serves as the Philippines' premier international shipping gateway, strategically positioned along major East-West shipping lanes in Southeast Asia. The port connects to multiple international destinations including China, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, Pakistan, and the United States. It functions as a critical node on the Maritime Silk Road, linking the Chinese coast through Singapore to India, Mombasa, and the Mediterranean with connections to Central and Eastern Europe. Domestically, Manila port facilitates trade throughout the Philippine archipelago, connecting Luzon to the MIMAROPA region, Visayas, and Mindanao islands.

Port Statistics

Port of Manila, Philippines – Key Statistics (2024):

• TEU Throughput: 5.5 million TEU
• World Ranking: 36th busiest container port globally
• Number of Berths: Approximately 34
• Port Area: Around 137 hectares (main container terminals)
• Shipping Lines: Served by over 30 major international shipping lines, including Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and Evergreen

The port comprises Manila International Container Terminal, South Harbor, and North Harbor, handling about 70% of the country’s international trade.