PHILIPPINES: Senator Erwin Tulfo is asking for a clearer answer from Iran after a container ship carrying Filipino seafarers was reportedly attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, said the incident raises serious concern because Iran had earlier assured the Philippine government that Filipino seafarers and Philippine-related shipments would be allowed safe passage through the strategic waterway.
The vessel, CMA CGM San Antonio, was reportedly hit on May 5 while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The Department of Migrant Workers earlier confirmed that seven Filipino crew members were injured.
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Tulfo Wants DFA to Ask Iran Directly
Tulfo said he would ask Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro to seek clarification from the Iranian Embassy.
“We need a clear answer from the Iranian government on whether it is still safe for Filipino seamen to navigate the Strait of Hormuz,” Tulfo said in a radio interview, according to GMA News.
For Tulfo, the issue is not only about one vessel. It is about whether Filipino maritime workers can still depend on the earlier safe passage understanding.
He said the answer is important so the government can properly advise Filipino seafarers and shipping stakeholders using the route.
Injured Filipino Crew Members Under Care
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said three of the injured Filipino seafarers were confined in the intensive care unit of a hospital near the Strait of Hormuz, based on the GMA News report. Another later update from GMA said the condition of one injured Filipino seafarer was improving.
The attack also came as several Filipino seafarers were still stranded in the area, adding pressure on Philippine agencies to give updated safety guidance.
Why the Strait Matters to Filipinos
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important sea routes. Reuters reported that about 20% of global oil trade is affected by disruptions in the area, making the route critical not only for shipping but also for energy supply.
Last month, Iran assured the Philippines that Philippine-flagged vessels, energy shipments, and Filipino seafarers would be given “safe and unhindered” passage through the Strait.
Waiting for an Official DFA Response
GMA News said it had sought comment from the DFA but had not yet received a response at the time of its report.
For now, Tulfo’s main question remains direct: if safe passage was promised, why was a ship carrying Filipinos attacked? Until that is answered, Filipino seafarers and their families may continue to worry about every voyage through the Strait of Hormuz.
