Philippines opens Iran energy talks, but Hormuz passage remains unclearA person points at a page on the Marinetraffic website that shows commercial boats traffic on the edge of the Strait of Hormuz near the Iranian coast, in Paris on March 4, 2026. MANILA, Philippines — Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro said Wednesday, April 1, she has discussed "energy cooperation" with Iran, but it remains unclear whether the talks addressed the current top concern for Manila: securing fuel shipments through the volatile Strait of Hormuz. The talks were also joined by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin. "Building on the momentum of our Political Consultations last November 2025, we are committed to deepening our cooperation across all fronts, particularly energy cooperation," Lazaro said in a social media post. DFA / Released Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro (L), Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeilzadeh (C) and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin (R) hold talks April 1, 2026.

Source: Philippine Star April 01, 2026 12:27 UTC