The Philippines is seeking formal recognition from Iran as a “non-hostile country” to ensure the safe passage of Philippine-flagged vessels and oil shipments, as tensions in the Middle East threaten global energy flows and maritime routes.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Tess Lazaro and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin raised the request during a meeting with Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeilzadeh, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro told reporters in a text message Wednesday.
The move comes as fuel prices surge and shipping routes face disruption following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which led to the partial closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Castro said Tehran signaled openness to Manila’s request: “Amb. Esmaeilzadeh noted that they have been awaiting our outreach and reaffirmed their strong willingness to assist the Philippines with our specific requests.”
Both sides agreed to streamline coordination through formal channels.
“We agreed to course all detailed requests through official diplomatic channels to expedite processing,” the Palace spokesperson said.
At the center of the talks is the Philippines’ push to secure energy supply lines and protect Filipino seafarers deployed across global shipping routes.
“Sec Lazaro requested that Iran formally designate PH as a ‘non-hostile country’ and ensure safe passage for PH-flagged vessels and oil shipments. This is vital for the protection of our seafarers and our energy supply. DOE is finalizing the necessary details for immediate transmission,” Castro said.
Lazaro is expected to elevate the discussions to the highest level.
“Sec Lazaro expects to speak with the Iranian Foreign Minister tomorrow to personally secure these commitments at the highest level,” the Palace spokesperson said.
Despite the geopolitical backdrop, Castro described the engagement as constructive: “The meeting was exceptionally warm and open. Given their stated readiness to cooperate, we are highly optimistic about a favorable outcome.”
The diplomatic push follows directives from Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who ordered officials to negotiate safe passage for Philippine-bound oil shipments amid escalating risks in the region.
Castro said the engagement with Iran was proposed during a recent meeting of the government’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport committee, convened by the president under a declared national energy emergency.
As the conflict shows no signs of easing, Manila is stepping up diplomatic efforts to secure fuel access and shield its maritime workforce from the ripple effects of a widening crisis in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.