-
Asian Terminals Inc. and partner DP World have commissioned six state-of-the-art hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes at Manila South Harbor
-
Capable of stacking six containers high, the new equipment brings MSH’s RTG fleet to 29 units, further enhancing the terminal’s ability to handle more cargo at faster and safer truck turnaround
-
By end-2026, MSH is expected to deploy three electric empty container handlers, two electric reach stackers and an additional 15 electric internal transfer vehicles
Strategic partners Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) and DP World have commissioned six state-of-the-art hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes at Manila South Harbor (MSH), strengthening the terminal’s capacity and supporting safer, more efficient and lower-emission operations.
The new-generation RTGs, manufactured by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. (ZPMC), use hybrid technology to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. They are equipped with advanced safety and operating features, including automatic gantry steering, emergency stop systems, anti-sway technology, truck detection and chassis positioning. The cranes are also designed for future conversion to fully electric operations.
Capable of stacking six containers high, the new equipment brings MSH’s RTG fleet to 29 units, further enhancing the terminal’s ability to handle more cargo at faster and safer truck turnaround.
ATI and DP World’s latest investment builds on the continued modernization of MSH through major seaside and landside infrastructure projects, new-generation cargo-handling equipment, digital technologies and systems upgrades.
READ: P5.7B South Harbor modernization project inaugurated
In early 2025, the partners inaugurated an extended Pier 3, equipped with two new quay cranes, among the largest in the Philippines. Together, these investments increased MSH’s annual container-handling capacity by nearly 40% from 1.45 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2021 to 2 million TEUs in 2025, reinforcing its role as one of the country’s major international trade gateways.
The hybrid RTGs also support the partners’ broader drive towards more efficient, lower-emission port operations. Last year, 15 fully electric internal transfer vehicles (eITVs) were rolled out at MSH, supported by quick-charging stations – a first for the Philippines.
By end-2026, MSH is expected to deploy three electric empty container handlers, two electric reach stackers and an additional 15 eITVs.
“For 40 years, ATI has continuously invested in the infrastructure, technology and people that keep Philippine trade moving. Together with DP World, we are building on this strong foundation by investing in cleaner equipment, smarter technologies and more resilient infrastructure that will make our gateways safer, more efficient and sustainable into the future,” William Khoury, DP World vice president for Ports & Terminals in Southeast Asia and ATI director, said in a statement.
“Our goal is to help shape the next generation of Philippine trade infrastructure. By working closely with government and industry partners and investing across our ports and logistics network, we can strengthen the connections that Philippine businesses rely on to reach domestic and international markets,” he added.
READ: ATI marks 40th anniversary with over P42B in investments
The transformation of MSH is part of ATI and DP World’s wider investment program across Manila, Batangas, Cavite and Laguna, focused on developing more competitive, resilient and future-ready trade infrastructure to support the long-term growth of the Philippine economy.
READ: DP World revenue up 13.1% in H1 despite Middle East disruption
