Manila, March 31 -- The Philippine government will initiate diplomatic talks with Iran to help ensure the safe passage of its fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route, Malacanang said Tuesday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to take the lead on the matter as part of efforts to safeguard the country's energy supply.

"Iniutos na po ng Pangulo kay Secretary Tess Lazaro... makikipag-usap po siya sa ambassador ng Iran, most probably po ay tomorrow. Kung hindi man po magkakaroon ng tomorrow, by next week po (The President has already instructed Secretary Tess Lazaro... she will speak with the Iranian ambassador, mo...