Manila: The Philippines has received assurances from Iran that Philippine-flagged vessels, fuel shipments, and Filipino seafarers will be allowed safe and uninterrupted passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The assurance followed a discussion between Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, focusing on energy security and the safety of Filipino workers at sea.
According to the Philippine foreign ministry, Iran has committed to ensuring smooth, secure, and timely transit for Philippine vessels and cargo through the key waterway.
Lazaro described the talks as productive, noting that both sides reached a positive understanding to safeguard energy supplies and protect seafarers.
The ministry said the assurance is crucial for the Philippines, which depends heavily on energy imports from the Middle East. The move is expected to help maintain steady deliveries of essential oil and fertilizer supplies.
With most of its crude oil sourced from the region, particularly from Saudi Arabia, the Philippines remains vulnerable to disruptions, making this agreement an important step toward energy security.
