Iran has assured the Philippines that Philippine-flagged vessels, fuel shipments and Filipino seafarers will be allowed safe and uninterrupted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Manila’s foreign ministry said on Thursday.
The assurance came during a phone call between Philippine Foreign Minister Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, where both officials discussed regional energy security and the protection of Filipino seafarers.
According to Manila, Iran pledged that Philippine vessels and energy cargoes would be granted unhindered and swift transit through the strategic waterway, a vital route for global oil shipments.
Lazaro described the discussion as productive, noting that both sides reached a positive understanding aimed at safeguarding seafarers and maintaining the Philippines’ energy supply chain.
The Philippines relies heavily on imports from the Middle East, with much of its crude oil sourced from Saudi Arabia, making stable passage through the Strait of Hormuz critical.
Manila said the assurance from Iran would help support steady deliveries of essential oil and fertilizer supplies to the country and reduce risks of disruptions to its energy security.