The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday assured that the agreement with Iran guaranteeing safe passage for Philippine-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz remains in effect despite rising tensions in the Middle East.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro said she received confirmation from Iran’s envoy to the Philippines during a phone call on Saturday, April 11.
Under the arrangement, at least two to three Philippine-flagged ships are granted “safe passage” through the strategic waterway, which is considered one of the world’s most critical routes for oil transportation.
“The agreement between the Philippines and Iran through the discussions that we had will remain the same,” Lazaro said, even as the United States threatened to impose a blockade on all Iranian ports following failed negotiations to halt the conflict.
“As of now based on the discussions, the agreement between the Philippines and Iran remains,” she added.
The DFA emphasized that the assurance is crucial amid growing global concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, where any disruption could significantly affect global energy supply chains and international trade flows.