MANILA — 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.

In a statement, the DFA said the assurance was conveyed during a phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

The agency said the development is crucial for the Philippines as it helps ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers in the المنطقة and supports the country’s energy security.

“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,” it said.

DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel also clarified that no toll fees will be imposed on vessels passing through the waterway, amid reports that Iran was planning to charge at least USD1 per barrel.

“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 strong bilateral relations and pursuing peace through dialogue and diplomacy, the DFA added.

The talks followed instructions from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the DFA to engage Tehran to ensure the safe passage of Philippine-bound ships.

Iran has maintained a de facto blockade in the Strait of Hormuz following joint military operations by the United States and Israel on February 28 targeting its nuclear facilities and killing its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

The disruption in the key maritime route has triggered volatility in global energy markets, prompting governments, including the Philippines, to take measures such as declaring a state of national energy emergency to stabilize fuel supply.