Captain Mackay Drops Anchor: Mindanao’s New Customs Powerhouse!

Collector Mackay Takes the Helm of the Subport of Mindanao Container Terminal

COURTESY: Bureau of Customs - Subport of Mindanao Container Terminal

Engr. Elvin Maurice R. Mackay officially assumed office as the new Subport Collector of the Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT) in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. He steps in with energy and vision, marking another exciting leadership transition at Collection District X’s key revenue driver. 

During a simple turnover on July 13, 2026, Coll. Mackay succeeded Coll. Nasrudin D. Guro, who now heads to Iligan. Everyone cheered the smooth handoff that keeps operations strong.

From Clerk to Customs Boss

Coll. Mackay brings over two decades of sharp expertise. He started as a Clerk II in 2004 and climbed steadily, serving as Acting Special Agent, Intelligence Officer, and Customs Operations Officer V. 

Previously leading Cavite and Laguna offices under the Port of Manila, he now steers MCT forward with fresh ideas and proven skills. Northern Mindanao just leveled up, and the future looks bright!

Ports Power Up: AIIB Drops $300M to Supercharge PH Terminals!

COURTESY: ICTSI

The Game-Changing Deal

AIIB lends USD300 million to ICTSI and shakes up Philippine ports big time. This marks the bank's first non-sovereign-backed transaction in the country. Leaders Enrique K Razon Jr and AIIB President Zou Jiayi signed the deal during her first visit, and everyone celebrated the partnership.  

Moreover, this senior unsecured corporate loan fuels exciting upgrades. ICTSI pushes forward with bold moves that boost infrastructure across the islands.  

Green Growth and Massive Capacity Boosts

The financing transforms three key terminals: Manila International Container Terminal, South Luzon Container Terminal in Batangas, and Mindanao Container Terminal. Teams install technology upgrades, buy fully electric quay cranes, and replace diesel equipment, which slashes greenhouse gas emissions fast.  

Additionally, these investments raise MICT capacity to 3.7 million TEUs by 2027, MCT to 1 million TEUs by 2028, and SLCT to 800,000 TEUs by 2028. They increase throughput, improve productivity, and drive stronger economic growth for the Philippines. ICTSI and AIIB both commit to sustainability and long-term wins for everyone involved.

Combating Agricultural Smuggling: A Call to Action by the Department of Agriculture

COURTESY: HSGA/PIA-10

In recent developments, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. took a significant step toward combating agricultural smuggling in the Philippines. During his inspection of a shipment of red onions at the Mindanao Container Terminal on June 24, he discovered a container suspected to be smuggled from Xiamen, China. This incident not only highlights the ongoing issues related to agricultural smuggling but also underscores the critical need for stricter enforcement of the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act, enacted in 2016.

Secretary Laurel made it clear that the Department of Agriculture will pursue a relentless approach against smugglers. He stated, "Mag handa kayo, hindi namin kayo titigilan. We will file the appropriate cases." This declaration emphasizes the government’s commitment to safeguarding local farmers and traders from the adverse effects of smuggling. Importantly, Laurel pointed out that smuggling operations have allegedly exploited the names of reputable companies for illicit activities. During the inspection, a container carrying approximately 25 tons of red onions was linked to Latinx Consumer Goods Trading, raising serious concerns about the integrity of import companies involved in such operations.

The Implications of Smuggling on Local Agriculture

The ramifications of agricultural smuggling extend beyond mere legal transgressions; they directly impact the livelihoods of local farmers and traders. As Secretary Laurel noted, the influx of smuggled goods disrupts market pricing, creating an uneven playing field for legitimate agricultural producers. This situation exacerbates the challenges faced by local farmers who struggle to compete with artificially low prices stemming from illegal imports. Consequently, the economic viability of local agriculture is jeopardized, threatening food security and the sustainability of farming communities.

Moreover, food safety concerns arise from the smuggling of agricultural products. Laurel cited alarming instances where seized smuggled items, such as those confiscated from Paco Market in Manila, tested positive for E. coli. Such findings raise significant health risks for consumers and highlight the urgent need for effective regulatory measures. The DA has already issued multiple Letters of Authority (LOAs) in collaboration with the Bureau of Plant Industry and the Bureau of Customs, targeting various agricultural products including rice and meat. Under the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act, individuals involved in smuggling—ranging from importers to brokers and truck drivers—can face legal repercussions. 

The recent actions taken by Secretary Laurel and the Department of Agriculture signify a robust commitment to uphold the integrity of the agricultural sector in the Philippines. By pursuing stricter enforcement of anti-smuggling laws, the government aims to protect local farmers, ensure fair competition, and safeguard the health of consumers. It is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate to eradicate smuggling and foster a more sustainable agricultural environment for future generations.