Manila: Concerns over the safety of Filipino seafarers intensified following reported attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting renewed calls to uphold international maritime law and protect civilians navigating one of the world's most critical waterways.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a privilege speech on Tuesday, Senator Erwin Tulfo cited the need to reinforce global protections for maritime workers after the reported attack on an oil tanker owned by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. (ADNOC) carrying 24 Filipino crew members.

He also noted a separate incident days earlier in which two vessels with 15 Filipino seafarers were reportedly fired upon in the same area.

"Thankfully, all of them were unharmed, yet these incidents highlight the ongoing risks of maritime workers in a volatile region," Tulfo said, pointing to tensions between Iran and the United States affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

Tulfo, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, noted that the safety of seafarers is anchored on United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, which underscores freedom of navigation in conflict zones, as well as calls from the International Maritime Organization for coordinated international action to safeguard maritime workers.

"With the safety of our seafarers a priority above all else, we call on the Iranian authorities to refrain from any actions that may threaten merchant vessels and endanger innocent civilian lives," he said, acknowledging previous instances when Iranian authorities allowed the safe passage of vessels carrying Filipino crew.

He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, uphold international law, and work toward de-escalation, reiterating the Philippines' commitment to protecting its citizens and pursuing peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and cooperation.