Malacañang on Monday described the reported breakdown of talks between the United States and Iran as “not good news,” calling for a peaceful resolution as tensions in the Middle East escalate.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippines joins the international community in hoping for an end to the conflict.

“Hindi siya magandang balita. Ang nais po natin… ay magkaroon na po ng permanenteng pagtigil ang sigalot,” Castro said during a press briefing on April 13.

She warned that continued hostilities could still affect petroleum prices, even as the situation develops.

“Kung magpapatuloy pa po ito, makakaapekto pa rin po ito sa produktong petrolyo,” she said.

Tensions have intensified following the collapse of negotiations between the US and Iran aimed at easing conflict in the region. In the wake of the failed talks, Donald Trump announced a blockade posture in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.

Castro said there is no immediate supply disruption affecting the Philippines at this time. She noted that Iran has characterized the Philippines as a non-hostile country, helping ensure continued access to supply in the near term.

However, she cautioned that the situation remains uncertain and could still have broader effects.

“Hindi natin masasabing walang magiging epekto po ‘yang patuloy na sigalot,” Castro said.

The Palace said the government will continue to monitor developments in the Middle East and their potential impact on the country.

As tensions persist, how should the Philippines prepare for possible spillover effects from global conflicts?

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