Manila, April 13 -- Rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions in global shipping have prompted efforts to secure the passage of Philippine vessels through the critical oil route.

During a Senate Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee hearing on Monday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Tess Lazaro said the government is pursuing diplomatic channels to ensure safe movement of Philippine-flagged ships in the region.

"We expect tensions to escalate following President (Donald) Trump's pronouncement last night of a blockade of all traffic in the Strait of Hormuz," Lazaro said.

However, she said the US military later clarified that the blockade would apply only...