Tolentino renews push to lease vessels, aircraft to bolster WPS defense

Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino

MANILA, Philippines – Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino on Thursday renewed his push for the government to consider leasing military vessels and aircraft to enhance the country’s defense capabilities, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Tolentino reiterated his proposal at the plenary debates on the proposed budget for 2025 of the Department of National Defense (DND), including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). 

“I would like to open the minds of the defense establishment that there is the possibility of leasing aircraft and even sea vessels,” said Tolentino. 

The senator has been urging the government to consider lease arrangements to be able to accelerate the expansion of its maritime fleet in the WPS, amid the continuing harassment of Filipino troops and fisherfolk by China. 

Tolentino is the principal author and  sponsor of the two recently signed landmark laws asserting the country’s territorial integrity and maritime domain – the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act.

“Leasing allows a country to save on the instant hefty cost of purchasing equipment. This would also reduce maintenance expenses, lower depreciation risk, and enhance operational budgeting,” he said.

Tolentino noted that the leasing by the government of ‘movable properties’ is authorized under the New Government Procurement Act (Republic Act 12009).

He said that ‘movable properties’ include vessels, boats, tugboats, aircraft carriers, and submarines,” among others. 

According to Tolentino, leasing has long been practiced in several countries, including the United States, India, Australia, South Korea, and NATO countries like Germany and the Netherlands.

Responding on behalf of the DND, its budget sponsor Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa said that the defense establishment is very receptive to Tolentino’s proposal. 

“Yes Mr. President. In fact, the government is seriously considering leasing ships from other countries as a stop-gap measure,” said Dela Rosa, who added that the DND is open to studying offers for the lease of equipment needed to strengthen the armed forces.