Metro Manila, Philippines – The Iranian government has assured the “safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage” of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy resources, and Filipino seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.
In a statement, the agency said Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro secured assurance from Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during a phone conversation on Thursday, April 2.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global trade, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
Lazaro said the development was vital for the Philippines’ energy security, given the country’s heavy reliance on imported oil.
“These assurances from Iran will greatly facilitate the steady delivery of critical oil and fertilizer supplies to the Philippines,” the DFA said.
The agency added that Manila and Tehran reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining excellent bilateral relations and “lasting peace through continued dialogue and diplomacy.”
The Philippine government earlier asked Iran to designate Manila to be a non-hostile country amid the escalating conflict involving Tehran, the United States, and Israel, which has rattled global markets.
