The Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), the flagship operation of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) and the Philippines’ leading international trading gateway, has taken a significant step toward responding to customer demands while ensuring environmentally friendly operations with the arrival of eight hybrid rubber-tired gantries (RTGs) featuring near-zero emission (NZE) technology.

Manufactured by Japan's Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. (MES), these advanced RTGs reflect MICT’s commitment to continually invest in equipment and technology not only to deliver the highest levels of productivity but also to be environmentally responsible.

The new RTGs, powered by a combination of a 100-kilovolt-ampere (kVA) lithium-ion battery and a smaller diesel engine, cut emissions by 60 to 70 percent compared to traditional RTGs.

Unlike conventional RTGs, the NZE RTGs use the smaller diesel engine primarily to charge the lithium-ion batteries, which power the crane's electric motors. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lowers emissions. Additionally, the NZE hybrid RTGs feature regenerative braking systems that capture energy during braking to recharge the batteries, improving overall efficiency.

The hybrid technology also delivers substantial fuel savings. MICT estimates an annual fuel reduction of more than 761,800 liters, a marked improvement over the 644,600 liters consumed by the terminal’s existing hybrid RTGs. This translates to an annual carbon dioxide emissions reduction of 1.97 kilotons, supporting MICT’s decarbonization strategy and environmental sustainability goals.

Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president, described the importance of the equipment: “The arrival of these near-zero emission RTGs further underpins our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint while enhancing operational capabilities. These new RTGs will improve our productivity, lower carbon emissions, and provide better service to our customers.”

With the addition of the new RTGs, MICT now operates the Philippines' largest container-handling fleet, consisting of 18 quay cranes and 52 RTGs.

Beyond fleet upgrades, MICT is undergoing a major expansion, including the second phase construction of Berth 8 and preparations for Berths 9 and 10. Once completed in 2027, Berth 8 will add 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in yard capacity and accommodate larger vessels of up to 18,000 TEUs. This development strengthens MICT’s role as the country’s premier international trading gateway and positions it to meet the growing demands of the global shipping industry.

These initiatives underscore MICT’s commitment to the nation's sustainability goals, operational excellence, and reinforcing the Philippines' position in the global trade network.