Iran has guaranteed the “unhindered” supply of fuel to the Philippines and pledged protection for Filipino seafarers affected by the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Thursday.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro discussed the matter in a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, stressing the urgent need to ensure safe navigation in the strategic waterway and secure shipments bound for the Philippines.
“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,” Lazaro said in a social media post.
According to the DFA, Araghchi assured that Iran would allow the safe, unhindered, and swift passage of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy shipments, and Filipino seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz.
The assurance follows Iran’s decision to close the vital shipping route in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on February 28 that reportedly killed key Iranian leaders and officials, triggering a spike in global crude oil prices. The blockade raised concerns over the Philippines’ energy security, as nearly 98 percent of its crude oil imports come from the Middle East.
In response to the situation, Manila has explored alternative sources of oil, including Russia, to mitigate potential supply disruptions.
The DFA emphasized that the latest development is crucial not only for the safety of Filipino seafarers but also for maintaining stable supplies of fuel and fertilizer in the country.
Both officials agreed that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential in easing tensions, reaffirming their commitment to sustaining strong bilateral relations between the Philippines and Iran.