Marcos eyes talks with Iran for safe passage of PH-bound vessels in Strait of Hormuz

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. wants high-level discussions with Iran to ensure the safe passage of Philippine-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid the Middle East conflict.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said the President, during a meeting of the UPLIFT committee on Monday, already directed the Department of Foreign Affairs regarding this matter. 

Castro said DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro would talk to Iran's ambassador either on Wednesday or next week.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Finance Committee, had urged the executive branch to engage in a high-level discussion with Iran to guarantee the safe passage of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly those bound for the Philippines.

Iran had restricted passage through the strait in retaliation to attacks made by the United States and Israel since February 28. 

Further, Iran launched strikes against countries in the Middle East that host US bases.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in oil price shocks, which may also affect the prices of basic goods and commodities. —KG/VBL, GMA News