A. P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk), through Maersk Contract Logistics in the Philippines, inaugurated October 30 its largest distribution center in the country to date, the 10-hectare facility in Calamba, Laguna.
Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cristina A. Roque, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary were the guests of honor during the inauguration. Dubbed Maersk Optimus Distribution Center, the facility is Maersk’s flagship warehouse in the Philippines.
Marcos emphasizes the critical role of logistics in daily life and the economy and recognizes Maersk Optimus’ important role in bolstering import and export activities in Southern Luzon, especially in Bicol and Calabarzon.
Marcos said: “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 and our businesses, and bringing together our people on a path towards sustained development.”
Marcos also encourages continued investment and development in the logistics sector for a more competitive industry.
He added: “Let this day reaffirm our commitment to constructing a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines), where we work hand-in-hand to ensure that prosperity flows into every corner of our archipelago.”
Cristina A. Roque, Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry, said: “I am delighted to witness the grand opening of Maersk’s Optimus Distribution Center. By facilitating increased domestic consumption and decongesting Metro Manila, it will boost the economic dynamism of Calabarzon and Southern Luzon. This investment is a significant step towards streamlining operations, reducing logistics costs, and strengthening the Philippines’ competitiveness.”
Optimus is the largest Maersk distribution center in the Philippines to date, with a 76,000-pallet storage capacity. It will serve as the transport hub for southern Luzon. Its 75-dock spread is equipped with a Fleet Operational Control Centre, allowing efficient management of its trucking fleet and maximizing operational efficiency.
Aiming to be a LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) distribution center, it leverages technologies that improve energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
Optimus will also integrate major warehouse operational and co-packing activities to cater to key industry verticals such as consumer goods, food and beverage, leisure/lifestyle, healthcare, technology, automotive, and retail. Currently, three of the existing fast-moving consumer goods customers are among the first to leverage the facility.
SP Tan, Head of Maersk Contract Logistics Philippines, said: “Maersk’s largest facility in the Philippines represents the fruition of our organizational aspiration to consistently deliver best-in-class logistics services and stay attuned to the evolving needs of our customers. Maersk Optimus’ strategic location, outfitted with leading-edge technology, enhances supply chain planning and efficiency, benefiting our customers as they bring their goods to local consumers.”
Photo credit: Maersk. Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr (fourth from left) at inauguration ceremony.
