FAST Showcases Innovations in End-to-End Logistics at PNGAAP National Conference

FAST Logistics Group, the leading provider of end-to-end logistics solutions in the Philippines, presented innovative approaches to boost efficiency and productivity in the face of challenges and risks in the Philippine logistics landscape.

Marc Anthony Dizon, Head of FAST ColdChain Operations, addressed members of the Papua New Guinea Association of Administrative Professionals (PNGAAP) during their National Conference on Tuesday, October 1, at Hilton Hotel Manila in Pasay City.

The PNGAAP invited FAST as a featured speaker on Day 1 of their three-day conference to provide valuable insights into how the company’s logistics innovations improve the efficiency of administrative professionals.

Their invitation reinforces FAST’s commitment to sharing knowledge and expertise in Philippine logistics, highlighting its role as a thought leader in driving innovation and best practices within the supply chain.

In his presentation, Marc highlighted FAST’s transformative logistics solutions in warehousing and transport operations. He emphasized how these advancements streamline processes while improving efficiency, productivity, and accuracy.

Marc also discussed how tech-driven approaches mitigate the impacts of common challenges in Philippine logistics such as heavy traffic, weather-related disruptions, road accidents, inventory inaccuracy, errors in picking and packing, and truck dispatch delays, among others.

Innovations in Warehouse Operations

During the event, Marc emphasized that FAST manages the largest warehouse footprint in the country, bearing the critical responsibility of ensuring efficient and accurate operations. Among FAST’s innovations in warehouse management are the following:

Warehouse Management System

FAST utilizes the Honeywell-powered Warehouse Management System (WMS), making it the sole implementer of this top-tier software solution in the Philippines.

This advanced system automates every stage of warehouse operations, from inventory management and order fulfillment to pick-and-pack processes, ensuring efficiency and accuracy throughout the supply chain.

The WMS offers real-time visibility into inventory levels for precise stock control and optimal use of warehouse space. It also streamlines order processing and reduces manual errors. 

“I would also like to note Honeywell Warehouse Management System integrates seamlessly with our existing systems and automates our workflows. FAST is also the sole implementer of Honeywell WMS in the Philippines,” Marc said.

Voice Pick Technology

To address picking and packing errors, FAST has implemented innovative Voice Pick technology, which is also powered by Honeywell. This state-of-the-art system uses voice commands to guide warehouse staff during order picking, significantly enhancing accuracy and eliminating the need for cumbersome handheld devices.

Moreover, the Voice Pick technology drastically reduces training time for new employees.

As a result, warehouses maintain higher operational efficiency and ensure quicker order fulfillment. This advancement exemplifies FAST’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance warehouse performance and accuracy.

Learn more about FAST’s Voice Pick technology through this video.

FleXchange

Marc also shared with conference participants that Philippine businesses often struggle with optimizing truck loading, which can take 2 to 4 hours depending on the truck size and cargo volume. This lengthy process delays truck dispatches and consumes valuable warehouse space.

To resolve these issues, FAST introduced FleXchange, a system-guided logistics solution that enables cargo to be pre-loaded into detachable containers. These containers are quickly loaded onto trucks upon their arrival.

Overall, FleXchange reduces loading time by 97% — from 2-4 hours to just 20 minutes — thereby increasing delivery speed and operational efficiency.

In this video, we outline the benefits of using FleXchange by FAST.

Innovations in Transport Logistics

FAST operates the largest transport fleet in the Philippines, and it faces significant challenges such as heavy traffic, rising fuel costs, and safety risks. To address these, FAST introduced the following innovations:

Transport Management System

FAST developed its own Transport Management System (TMS) to optimize transport operations. With FAST TMS, every delivery is more efficient, benefiting both the company and its partners who rely on timely and reliable goods handling and delivery.

“With this technology, we can scale our operations more effectively while maintaining a high level of service quality,” Marc said.

FAST TMS is a comprehensive suite of software solutions that includes an AI Planner, which ensures each truck is loaded to full capacity. It also uses traffic and weather data to optimize routes for delivery vehicles, thus reducing trips and fuel consumption. 

This solution includes Driver and Trucker Apps, which streamline communication and provide real-time delivery updates and electronic proof of delivery. These apps reduce manual check-ins and enhance reliability of supply chain operations.

All these apps and software are connected to the TMS Control Tower for end-to-end visibility into shipment statuses and valuable data insights.

AI-Powered Dashcams

To enhance road safety and reduce accidents, FAST installed AI-powered dashcams across its fleet. These dashcams, equipped with GPS tracking and machine learning algorithms, monitor both driver behavior and road conditions in real time.

By capturing and analyzing data as it occurs, the system can alert the FAST Command Center to potential risks such as speeding, sudden braking, or distracted driving. Watch the video below to learn more.

“This proactive approach allows us to address safety concerns before they escalate, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring safer operations,” Marc explained.

Commitment to Sustainability and Inclusivity

Marc emphasized that for logistics operations to thrive, they must be sustainable and inclusive. He highlighted the importance of adopting eco-friendly practices and ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented in logistics decision-making, ultimately leading to better solutions for the challenges in the Philippine supply chain industry.

Green Logistics Practices

Marc underscored FAST’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact. He noted that major warehouses in Luzon, such as the FAST Logistics Hub-Laguna and FAST ColdChain Facility in Cavite, operate on renewable energy, not only for cost savings but also to reduce the company’s reliance on fossil fuels.

He said FAST also introduced the Philippines’ first fully electric trucks for logistics, supported by FAST Recharge, a network of solar-powered charging stations. “With FAST Recharge, our electric vehicles run on clean energy with zero carbon emissions,” Marc said.

Learn more about our sustainability initiatives through this video.

FAST won the top prize in the Sustainability and Green Logistics category of the 2024 SCMAP Supply Chain Philippines Excellence Awards for its impressive sustainability initiatives and innovative logistics solutions. The company reported avoiding 2,669,320 kg of CO2e by harnessing solar energy through its grid-tied photovoltaic system and utilizing the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) of the Department of Energy. Additionally, the use of FAST EV resulted in a substantial reduction of 539,888 kg of CO2e. 

Upskilling Supply Chain Workers

FAST recognizes the importance of enhancing the skills of its workforce. The organization has established a Learning and Innovation Center, offering government-certified logistics programs that empower employees and logistics professionals to deepen their expertise, thereby better serving customers and partners.

FAST utilizes a Learning Management System, an online platform that equips employees with essential skills and knowledge, regardless of their location.

“Our modules and learning materials are curated by industry professionals, training specialists, and subject matter experts, all part of our mission to elevate the competencies of Filipino workers and raise industry standards in Philippine logistics,” Marc stated.

Industry Leadership in Philippine Logistics

As a tech-driven company, FAST Logistics Group leverages advanced systems and tools to enhance operational efficiency and deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients and partners. By continuously investing in cutting-edge technology, FAST also creates unique solutions to overcome industry challenges.

FAST continues to drive innovation as the leading end-to-end logistics company in the Philippines. Its logistics solutions are customized for the local market, establishing it as the trusted logistics partner of multinational corporations, Filipino conglomerates, and small and medium enterprises.

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