MANILA — The Philippines secured a crucial diplomatic assurance from Iran guaranteeing the safe and uninterrupted passage of Philippine-flagged vessels and energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, easing mounting concerns over fuel supply disruptions and the safety of Filipino seafarers amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The commitment, confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), followed a high-level phone conversation between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.
“During the call, the Iranian Foreign Minister assured the Secretary that Iran will allow the safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage through the Strait of Hormuz of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy sources, and all Filipino seafarers,” the DFA said.
The assurance is seen as a critical safeguard for the Philippines’ energy lifeline, as a significant portion of global oil shipments passes through the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint increasingly threatened by regional instability.
“Secretary Lazaro noted that this positive development is vital for the Philippines, as it will not only ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers operating in the area but will also help ensure energy security for the country,” it added.
Government officials emphasized that the development comes at a sensitive period, with heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raising fears of disruptions in global oil flows that could further drive up fuel prices.
The Philippine government had earlier declared an energy emergency to allow more flexible sourcing of fuel, while authorities continue to closely monitor supply levels and price movements.
The latest diplomatic breakthrough is expected to provide temporary relief to both the shipping sector and energy-dependent industries, even as uncertainties in the region persist./PN
