CALAMBA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday inaugurated a new mega distribution facility of logistics giant Maersk, which is anticipated to enhance the country’s import and export activities and propel the Philippine logistics system towards becoming a significant force. ‘With the grand opening of the Maersk Optimus Distribution Center, our logistics system will be a step closer to become a powerful force – bridging our islands, breathing life into our industries, our businesses, bringing together our people on a path towards sustained development,’ Marcos stated during the launch event in this city.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Maersk Optimus Distribution Center is one of the largest logistics centers in the country and is expected to significantly bolster import and export activities in Southern Luzon, particularly in Bicol and Calabarzon. The Philippines’ logistics sector has seen progress, ranking 43rd out of 139 countries in the World Bank’s 2023 Logistics Performance Index (LPI
), improving from the 60th rank in 2018. President Marcos attributed this improvement to advancements in customs efficiency, infrastructure quality, and timely deliveries.
Since its establishment in 1974, Maersk Philippines has operated with 11 offices, including a corporate office in the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City and a main distribution center in Cainta, Rizal. The PHP4.8 billion, 10-hectare facility in Laguna represents Maersk’s largest distribution center in the Philippines and will function as the transport hub for southern Luzon and the Bicol region.
The new facility is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, with Maersk planning to hire approximately 1,000 personnel within the first two years of its operation. Additionally, the center will support numerous small and medium enterprises (SME) vendors, creating indirect employment for another 1,000 individuals.
President Marcos also acknowledged Maersk Philippines for its commitment to environmentally sustainable practices an
d alignment with the government’s initiatives towards a cleaner and greener Philippines. The facility’s use of solar power to reduce grid consumption by 30 percent and deployment of electric vehicles for last-mile services highlight this commitment. Maersk is also aiming to achieve a Gold Certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, reflecting its dedication to environmental stewardship, a key component of the administration’s agenda.