MANILA — In response to rising tensions in the Middle East, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tasked Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro with negotiating with Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh to guarantee the safe passage of Philippine-bound oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed Tuesday.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian had called for high-level diplomatic talks with Iran to protect the Philippines’ energy supply, urging swift action amid regional instability.
“Secretary Lazaro plans to speak with the Iranian ambassador, probably tomorrow, and if not, next week,” Castro added.
The Philippines depends heavily on the Middle East for its crude oil, sourcing 98 percent of its supply from the region. The ongoing conflict has caused blockages in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic route for approximately 20 percent of global oil shipments.
Iran has stated that its waters are open to all vessels except those from the United States, Israel, and their allies involved in recent attacks. While the Philippines is a U.S. treaty ally, it is not participating in the conflict.
According to Lloyd’s List, close to 2,000 vessels are awaiting clearance near the strait, which Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps now regulates through a controlled transit system.
ia/xf
