Malacañang assured on Monday, April 6, that the United States will not object to Philippine vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz following an agreement with Iran to ensure safe passage.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro earlier confirmed that the Philippines held discussions with Iran to secure the safety of its ships navigating the key maritime route, which is vital to global oil supply chains.
During a Palace press briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the arrangement would not create friction with Washington.
“Nakausap po natin mismo si Secretary Tess, at ang sinabi po ni Secretary Tess Lazaro ng DFA, wala po tayong nakikitang anong magiging isyu sa ating kaibigan na bansa na US dahil alam naman po nila ang sitwasyon ngayon, at hinahalintulad po ito sa pag-angkat po natin ng oil mula sa Russia,” Castro said.
The Palace also noted that Philippine exports bound for the Middle East have long passed through the same route, underscoring its importance to trade and logistics.
“Opo, kasi po ang sinabi sa atin dito of course, ‘pag sinabi po natin na puwedeng dumaan, lahat po ng Philippine products or PH-bound goods, ito po ay mapapakinabangan po natin,” she added.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for energy transport, with a substantial portion of global petroleum shipments passing through its waters, making its security a key concern for many nations, including the Philippines.