International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) is set to implement full automation of a new central gate at its flagship, Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), with the introduction of truck portals with imaging cameras and automated driver transaction kiosks. 
These new components are in addition to the modern weigh bridges that were installed during the gate’s initial phase of operation. The new features are expected to further improve service delivery, and boost cargo safety and security of containers entering the MICT. 
 “We can now look forward to our central gate running with increased efficiency minus the presence of a checker at the gate premises as the automated gate system will do most of the work for us. This means less human error, and more accurate gathering of container data. What we will have is a remote checkers office that will monitor the entry of trucks,” says Francis Andrews, ICTSI Senior Vice President and MICT General Manager.  
 “The new components are proof of MICT’s strong commitment in providing customers the best service through our world class facilities,” he adds. 
Upon entering the central gate, six portals with monochrome area scan cameras will capture images of a container’s left, right, top, front, and rear back door sides. The truck’s license plate is also captured then stored in the system for reference. Through optical character recognition (OCR), container numbers are also captured by the system while possible container damages are manually flagged by a checker from the remote office.
Drivers will now transact business through automated driver transaction kiosks or computer kiosks that are installed on each lane of the gate facility. Each kiosk has a: 
– Biometric finger print scan that will read driver fingerprints against the database of registered drivers;
– Bar code card reader that will scan driver identification cards and terminal documents;
– Voice over IP speaker and call button audio system that will enable two-way communication between the drivers and remote gate checkers;
– LCD screen that will provide instructions and messages to guide the driver through the gate transaction; and
– Built-in thermal printer that will print Truck Instruction Document (TID) and Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR) after the execution of each transaction (gate-in or gate-out). 
 
Upon pulling out of the TID or EIR, the gate’s barrier arm will lift, allowing the truck to enter the terminal. 
The MICT central gate was installed as a value added service to MICT port users in order to facilitate fast, safe and efficient handling of containers. The gate further strengthens compliance with the ISPS Code and maritime trade regulations of the US Department of Homeland Security.
Shipping lines and port user groups support the new gate facility, which boosted service delivery and cargo safety at the MICT.