Malacañang on Monday said efforts to secure safe passage for Philippine-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz are critical to ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply, even as it signaled openness to proposals such as temporary fuel purchase limits to curb hoarding.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said talks with Iran are focused on maintaining the steady flow of oil and other essential goods amid global supply disruptions.

Iran earlier assured the Philippines of the “safe, unhindered and expeditious” passage of Philippine-flagged vessels, including those carrying energy supplies and crewed by Filipino seafarers, through the Strait of Hormuz.

The strait is a vital waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, and where about 20 percent of global oil shipment passes through.

Castro clarified that the engagement with Tehran would not affect Manila’s longstanding alliance with the United States (US).

“Wala po tayong nakikitang magiging isyu sa ating kaibigan na bansa na US dahil alam naman po nila ang sitwasyon ngayon (We don’t see any issue from our ally, the US, because they understand the situation),” she said.

Amid uncertainties in global supply, the Palace said proposals such as imposing temporary limits on fuel purchases to prevent hoarding are being considered.

“Lahat po ng suggestion ay maaari pong ikonsidera ng administrasyon (All suggestions may be considered by the administration),” Castro said, noting the matter would be discussed with the Department of Energy.

The Philippines is among the countries affected by the oil price shock following tensions in the Middle East, including disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared a national energy emergency, with the government rolling out a range of measures to stabilize supply and mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices. (PNA)