Iran has agreed to allow Philippine-flagged vessels and Filipino seafarers to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said, following diplomatic engagement between Manila and Tehran.
According to the DFA, the assurance was conveyed during a phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, which the agency described as productive and focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The commitment covers Philippine-flagged ships, energy cargo, and Filipino crew members transiting the strategic waterway, a key global route for oil shipments.
The development comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the DFA to pursue talks with Iran to secure safe passage for Philippine-bound vessels amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz has been at the center of a geopolitical crisis since late February, when Iran restricted maritime traffic following conflict involving the United States and Israel. The disruption has affected global oil supply chains and prompted concerns over energy security in import-dependent countries such as the Philippines.
Iran has since allowed limited passage to vessels from countries it considers non-hostile, subject to coordination with its authorities.
Philippine officials have emphasized the importance of ensuring uninterrupted transit through the strait, which handles a significant portion of the world’s oil trade. Any prolonged disruption could lead to higher fuel costs and impact domestic prices of goods.
The DFA said the agreement with Iran is expected to help safeguard the country’s energy supply and protect Filipino seafarers working aboard international vessels navigating the area.
The Philippines relies heavily on imported oil, much of which passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making the assurance a critical step in mitigating risks posed by the ongoing regional conflict