Tolentino: PH can expand fleet, boost WPS presence by leasing ships

Citing the urgency of expanding the country’s maritime fleet to increase its presence in the West Philippine Sea, Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino has proposed to the government to consider acquiring additional vessels by leasing them from other countries.

MANILA, Philippines – Citing the urgent need of expanding the country’s maritime fleet and bolster its presence in the West Philippine Sea, Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino has proposed to the government to consider leasing ships from other countries. 

Speaking at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay on Wednesday, Tolentino said: “Given that the Philippines is a developing nation, it would be more beneficial to acquire ships leased from foreign countries and companies,” which he pointed out, would be the faster and less costly option. 

He noted that this option is already being practiced by superpowers like France and the United Kingdom.

He added that it is standard practice for commercial airlines to acquire leased aircraft, instead of buying them.

“The ordering and building of a ship can take at least five years, but leased vessels can be readily acquired and deployed for the use of our personnel,” he pointed out, while noting that the newly passed government procurement law allows such an arrangement. 

He also noted that there are global companies that are into the business of leasing modern vessels, including those that can serve as maritime patrols, frigates, and medical ships.

Tolentino, who chairs the Senate Special Committee on Maritime and Admiralty Zones,  brought up the idea in light of the recent withdrawal of the BRP Teresa Magbanua from Escoda Shoal, which is being swarmed by Chinese vessels. 

The senator expressed full support for the decision, but also asked the government to consider sending a new ship to maintain the country’s presence in the area.

“I mentioned last Sunday that it was appropriate to repair the ship. Our crew is dehydrated, and we have run out of supplies and food. It’s crucial to replenish these resources, but we should have a replacement ready. We must monitor the situation closely; we can’t just announce it,” he added.

Citing the urgency of expanding the country’s maritime fleet to increase its presence in the West Philippine Sea, Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino has proposed to the government to consider acquiring additional vessels by leasing ships from other countries.