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The United Portusers Association of the Philippines, Inc. called on the Bureau of Customs to intervene as it flagged the high utilization rate for reefer containers at Manila International Container Terminal
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It stressed that refrigerated goods such as food and medicines are put at extra risk by the overcapacity
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UPS also warned that the high utilization for reefers “will spill over into general operation”
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UPC recommends, among others, for BOC to prioritize the processing and release of reefer containers, a review of overstaying reefer units, and return of empty containers to depots outside Metro Manila
The United Portusers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (UPC) called on the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to intervene as it flagged the high utilization rate for reefer containers at Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).
In a letter to Customs commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno dated February 3, the industry group warned that the reefer overcapacity impacts overall yard operations as well as puts refrigerated goods at higher risk.
UPC cited that while overall yard utilization at MICT remains within a manageable range at 81.99% (as of February 2, 7:00 a.m.), they express grave concern over the 105.98% utilization rate for reefers.
As of February 4, 7:00 a.m., reefer utilization improved to 102.17% while overall yard utilization was at 82.89%.
UPC said the situation “may weigh heavily on the overall level if not addressed soon.”
“Operating at over 100% capacity in the reefer segment indicates that the facility has exceeded its designed electrical and spatial limits for temperature-controlled cargo,” UPC noted.
The group said they have identified potential issues and risks associated with such “level of saturation”, including the increased risk of power fluctuations and inadequate monitoring, which may potentially lead to the spoilage of food and pharmaceutical imports.
UPC – composed of representatives from key logisictics and business organizations – said a saturated reefer yard inevitably leads to “double-handling,” which slows down truck turnaround times and increases logistics costs for its members.
“Without immediate intervention, this local bottleneck will spill over into general operations,” it said.
To mitigate risks and protect the interests of the port-using community, UPC urged BOC to prioritize the processing and release of reefer containers to de-clog the reefer yard.
It also called for a review of overstaying reefer units to ensure the yard is not being utilized as long-term storage for importers.
UPC also sought clarification on the contingency measures being implemented to support the 5.98% volume currently operating outside of standard reefer slots.
Further, the group recommends the strict implementation of Customs Memorandum Order No. 13-2019, which provides interim guidelines for handling empty containers at MICT and Manila South Harbor, including the temporary prohibition of returning empty boxes to the two terminals and the re-exportation of empty containers within a 30-day period.
READ: BOC overhauls rules on operation of customs bonded warehouses
In relation to this, UPC also recommends for BOC to urge haulers to bring their empty containers to depots like EMME Depot Hub in Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite that can accommodate up to 5,000 twenty-foot equivalent units.
The group noted, however, that this “should be at the shipping line’s expense” and can be a temporary or permanent solution for haulers and customs brokers currently reeling from the problems brought about by unreturned containers.
“UPC remains a committed partner in ensuring the seamless flow of trade. However, we must address the reefer saturation immediately to prevent a broader logistics crisis that would negatively impact the supply chain and the Filipino consumer,” the group said.
Port stakeholders have earlier expressed fear over the high utilization levels at MICT and MSH as well as in empty container depots.
According to BOC, MICT’s yard utilization in January and most of December 2025 was beyond 80% with high reefer utilization. For MSH, January utilization rates ranged from 70% to 80% from 60% to 70% in December 2025.
READ: PCCBI recommends measures to address yard congestion
Several conditions conspired to bring forth congestion, according to PortCalls industry sources: high cargo volume from December to pre-Chinese New Year; limited withdrawal of import containers during the holidays; and, lack of trucks to return empty containers to depots (depots are full) and also pull out laden containers in terminals.—Roumina Pablo
