TIMELINE: PH-Iran relations throughout centuries

Iran has allowed Philippine-flagged vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz amid the heightened tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced recently.

This move shows a longstanding and evolving relationship between the two countries.

Based on the 2017 book “Philippine-Iran Relations: 50 Years and Beyond,” released by the University of the Philippines – Diliman’s Asian Center, historical records show that ties between the Philippines and Iran stretch back centuries.

Early contacts and cultural links

Persian traders were already transacting with early Filipino communities during the first millennium, becoming part of growing maritime trade networks linking West Asia, Southeast Asia, and China. 

These interactions led to cultural exchanges, including intermarriages and the spread of Islam in parts of the southern Philippines.

1964: Formal diplomatic ties 

Modern relations officially started in 1964 when the Philippines and Iran established diplomatic relations. 

The beginning of their relations was influenced by shared geopolitical alignments during the Cold War and mutual interests in trade and cooperation.

1970s: Oil and labor

Relations deepened in the 1970s as Iran’s oil boom created demand for foreign workers and the Philippines responded by sending Filipino workers to Iran.

Diplomatic missions were also opened as embassies established in Manila and Tehran in 1974.

1979: Iranian Revolution 

The 1979 Islamic Revolution marked a turning point and Iran’s shift in political orientation led to the repatriation of many foreign workers, including Filipinos.

This move changed Tehran’s foreign policy direction.

The revolution also influenced Manila’s domestic and foreign policy considerations regarding Muslim movements in Mindanao and broader geopolitical alignments.

1980s-1990s: Re-engagement 

After these political transitions, relations resumed in the 1990s with enhanced diplomatic activities like joint commissions and the signing of agreements in trade, culture, energy, and maritime cooperation.

Iran also expressed support for peace initiatives in Mindanao in the Philippines including efforts related to negotiations involving Moro rebel groups.

2000s onward: Modest but steady 

Despite numerous agreements and exchanges between the Philippines and Iran, bilateral relations have generally remained modest in terms of trade and broader cooperation. 

The slow pace in Philippine-Iran relations was attributed to external geopolitical influences, limited mutual awareness, and media perceptions.

However, their cooperation has continued in areas such as education with Iranian students studying in the Philippines, as well as maritime and labor agreements benefiting Filipino seafarers. —VAL, GMA News