MANILA – The Philippine government has secured assurances from Iran that Filipino seafarers and Philippine-flagged vessels will be allowed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, following high-level diplomatic talks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.

The development comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed officials to engage Tehran to safeguard the country’s energy supply and protect the welfare of Filipino workers overseas.

“Safe, Unhindered Passage” Assured

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the commitment was made during a Maundy Thursday phone call 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.

Lazaro described the discussion as “very productive,” highlighting its importance for both maritime safety and energy security. “Building on recent talks, we reached a positive understanding on the safety of our seafarers and the security of our energy supply. Grateful for the warm spirit of cooperation,” she said in a post on X.

No Additional Fees for Passage

The DFA also clarified that Philippine vessels will not be charged transit fees, amid earlier reports that Iran might impose new charges on ships crossing the strait.

“On question regarding the reported toll fee, there is no toll fee,” DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said.

This ensures oil shipments bound for the Philippines will not face additional costs at a time when global fuel prices remain volatile.

Oil Imports Crucial for Energy Supply

The agreement is seen as critical for the Philippines, which relies heavily on imports from the Middle East. “Given that the Philippines imports the majority of its energy requirements from the Middle East, these assurances from Iran will greatly facilitate the steady delivery of critical oil and fertilizer supplies to the Philippines,” the DFA said.

About one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz. For the Philippines, which imports around 98% of its crude oil, any disruption could directly impact fuel prices, transport costs, and overall inflation.

The assurance also provides relief for thousands of Filipino seafarers working on vessels operating in the Middle East.

War and Blockade: Tensions in the Middle East

The talks come as tensions remain high following recent military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have raised concerns about possible disruptions along key shipping routes.

Iran has tightened its control over the strait in response, contributing to uncertainty in global energy markets.

President Marcos earlier said the country’s fuel reserves could last until the end of June, but has ordered the government to secure additional supply to build up reserves.

The government has also declared a state of national energy emergency to prepare for potential supply disruptions.

PH Reaffirms Commitment to Diplomacy

Both the Philippines and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining cooperation and dialogue.

According to the DFA, both sides agreed on the importance of “Maintaining excellent relations and achieving lasting peace through continued dialogue and diplomacy.”

The Philippines is among several Asian countries that have received similar assurances, as governments seek to protect their economic interests and citizens amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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