DHL Express's new 3,875 m2 facility at Mactan Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines, is designed to improve sorting and handling operations. The highly automated system can sort both inbound and outbound shipments for gateway and service center operations, with inbound sorting capacity reaching 825 pieces per hour and outbound at 320 pieces per hour.

The new facility is located at Mactan Cebu International Airport. Photo: DHL

The new facility is located at Mactan Cebu International Airport. Photo: DHL

"The new Cebu Gateway demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent service, especially in the VisMin region," said Nigel Lockett, Country Manager of DHL Express Philippines. "This investment reinforces our dedication to expanding our network to support businesses, contributing to national economic growth."

The facility features 100% direct loading positions and an advanced security system with integrated shipment imaging and scan control at operational points, ensuring comprehensive screening of incoming and outgoing goods. Focusing on carbon emission reduction, the facility utilizes energy-saving LED lighting, inverter air conditioning, low-speed, high-volume fans, natural ventilation, and skylights to minimize electricity consumption.

Thilaga Vathy Rajoo, Vice President of Operations at DHL Express Philippines, explained that the strategic location of the new Cebu Gateway provides optimal access to both air and road networks, enabling faster and more efficient transfer of shipments from aircraft to the gateway. This will reduce sorting time at service centers, allowing for earlier deliveries and potentially extending pickup times.

With daily DHL flights to and from Cebu, the new facility handles larger shipment volumes while maintaining daily flight schedules and express delivery commitments. DHL Express considers this a competitive advantage, positively impacting long-term customer service quality.

According to the 2025 DHL Trade Atlas Report published by DHL and New York University's Stern School of Business, the Philippines is projected to be among the top 30 global economies in terms of trade growth speed and scale between 2024 and 2029.

DHL Express affirms that the expansion in the Philippines not only supports the local economy but also strengthens the nation's trade infrastructure, preparing it for growth opportunities and demonstrating a commitment to making the Philippines a key link in global trade.

The Dan (Supply Chain Dive)