Iran has assured the Philippines of the “safe, unhindered, and expeditious” passage of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy shipments, and Filipino seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday.
The assurance was conveyed during a phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, according to the DFA.
The development is seen as critical for the Philippines, which relies heavily on Middle East imports for its energy needs.
“Given that the Philippines imports the majority of its energy requirements from the Middle East, these assurances from Iran will greatly facilitate the steady delivery of critical oil and fertilizer supplies to the Philippines,” the DFA said.
It added that the guarantee would help protect Filipino seafarers operating in the area and “also help ensure energy security for the country.”
DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel also clarified that no transit fees would be imposed, dismissing reports that Iran planned to charge at least $1 per barrel—estimated at around $2 million per vessel.
“On question regarding the reported toll fee, there is no toll fee,” she said in a text message to reporters.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to “maintaining excellent relations and achieving lasting peace through continued dialogue and diplomacy,” the DFA said.
The talks were initiated after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the DFA to engage Tehran to secure safe passage for Philippine-bound vessels.
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following joint military operations by Israel and the United States on Feb. 28 targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, which reportedly resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Iran has since maintained a de facto blockade of the key maritime chokepoint, triggering volatility in global energy markets and pushing oil prices higher.
The disruption prompted Manila to act swiftly. Last week, President Marcos declared a state of national energy emergency to cushion the impact of potential fuel supply shocks and stabilize the domestic energy sector.