Category: Philippine Star

Philip Morris International (PMI) has marked a major milestone in its transformation journey, with its flagship smoke-free product, IQOS, surpassing $10 billion in annual net revenues in 2024 – less than a decade after its launch.

Speaking here at the unveiling of the limited edition IQOS Iluma i, designed by Italian entrepreneur and visionary Stefano Seletti, PMI president for heated tobacco products Oggie Kapetanovic highlighted the challenges and achievements behind building a purpose-driven brand in one of the world’s most heavily regulated industries.

‘Our smoke-free products, such as IQOS, are fundamentally different from cigarettes,’ Kapetanovic said. ‘They have the potential to bring meaningful benefits to public health and society at large. But helping people understand this – educating them about the science and technology – requires tremendous effort and years of commitment,’ he said.

Since its debut, IQOS has positioned itself as a cornerstone of PMI’s strategy to shift away from traditional cigarettes. The brand’s rapid rise to a $10 billion benchmark puts it in a rare company, outpacing global tech giants like Amazon and Tesla in the speed with which it reached that level of revenue, the executive said.

In the Philippines, IQOS was launched by Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Co., PMI’s local affiliate, in 2020. Since then, it has expanded its presence nationwide, offering smoke-free alternatives to adult smokers. Today there are about 150,000 IQOS users in the Philippines.

Smoke-free business accounted for approximately 41 percent of PMI’s total net revenues in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, IQOS replaced Marlboro cigarettes as its leading brand, marking a historic stride toward becoming a company that no longer sells cigarettes.

PMI attributes this growth to a combination of cutting-edge technology, consumer-centric design and a sustained focus on harm reduction.

‘IQOS has redefined innovation within our sector,’ Kapetanovic said. ‘It shows our ability to compete at the forefront of global transformation, even in one of the most regulated industries in the world,’ he added.

Beyond the commercial success, PMI continues to leverage cultural and creative collaborations to expand awareness of its smoke-free vision. The brand has participated in major events such as Milan Design Week, and forged partnerships with global creatives including American DJ and record producer Steve Aoki in Japan and design powerhouse Seletti in Italy.

‘Events like Milan Design Week bring together the most forward-thinking creators,’ Kapetanovic said. ‘Seeing how people engage with us – how curious and open they are – makes me proud. It shows that the real transformation is already happening.’

As PMI deepens its shift toward a smoke-free future, the company sees IQOS not just as a product, but as a symbol of technological and social change – aiming to help millions of adult smokers switch to better alternatives.

PMI estimates that more than 41 million adults around the world use the company’s smoke-free products.

Jeffren Lumbo, the rookie from Sarangani, fired a gutsy two-under 70 under steady drizzle to hold off Ryan Monsalve halfway through the ICTSI South Pacific Golf Classic in Davao yesterday.

The 29-year-old Lumbo carded a 35-35 round highlighted by four birdies, including three straight from No. 10 for a seven-under 137, two strokes ahead of his closest pursuer.

Monsalve took the challenger’s role with a two-day total of 139 after an impressive bogey-free 68. Russell Bautista also carded a 68 for solo third at 140 in the P3.5 million event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

Meanwhile, Sarah Ababa scrambled for a one-under 71 to surge past erstwhile leader Chanelle Avaricio and a charging Florence Bisera in the penultimate round of ladies play.

Counting her opening 69, Ababa assembled a four-under 140.

The Philippines and Canada will sign on Nov. 2 a military cooperation deal enabling the two countries to engage in more joint training, exchanges and other activities as allied nations.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and Canadian Minister of National Defence David McGuinty will meet in Makati.

High-level talks will be followed by the signing of the Philippines-Canada Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, the Department of National Defense (DND) said yesterday.

The SOVFA will be submitted to President Marcos for ratification.

Another defense pact, the Philippines and Japan’s Reciprocal Access Agreement, entered into force last month after being signed in July.

A similar bilateral military deal is expected to be signed between the Philippines and New Zealand in the coming months.

Last August, Philippine, Australian and Canadian warships traversed the West Philippine Sea as part of joint military training exercises.

In March, DND spokesman Arsenio Andolong said the military deal with Canada will facilitate ‘more effective joint exercises and capacity-building activities.’

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday denounced corruption claims made by Cavite Rep. Kiko Barzaga.

Described as a ‘crazy cat’ and an ‘annoying dog’ by Sen. Panfilo Lacson, Barzaga called for the PCG’s abolition, saying the agency would spark the third world war in the West Philippine Sea.

‘The PCG’s presence in the WPS is not an act of provocation,’ PCG spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said. ‘Our patrols and operations prevent the normalization of China’s illegal activities, protect our fishermen from harassment and expose violations of international norms.’

Barzaga has aligned himself with the Dutertes, who are seen to have a pro-China stance.

A dialogue with Barzaga and all stakeholders in Congress would ‘clarify misconceptions and strengthen cooperation toward maritime security and safety,’ PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said.

Barzaga, who has been delisted from the Army reserve force, accused the PCG of being ‘one of the most corrupt’ agencies for giving high ranks to Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez and Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon.

Romualdez and Gadon are ranked auxiliary vice admiral and rear admiral, respectively, in the PCG reserve force.

Cayabyab explained that auxiliary members are ‘not active-duty PCG officers and their honorary ranks do not confer authority or compensation.’

Pinoys trust PCG – OCTA

Meanwhile, an OCTA Research survey has found that most Filipinos are satisfied with the PCG’s performance and highly trust the agency.

Seventy-five percent of the respondents are satisfied with the PCG’s performance and 71 percent trust the PCG, according to the Sept. 25 to 30 poll.

OCTA released the survey after Barzaga called for the abolition of the PCG.

Anti-narcotics agents arrested a businessman from Uganda who was caught allegedly with P42.5 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay on Tuesday night.

The 45-year-old suspect, whom the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) identified only as Adna, was nabbed during an interdiction operation at the airport’s customs exclusion room. He allegedly yielded 6.25 kilos of shabu.

The suspect arrived in the country from Antananarivo in Madagascar, authorities said.

Police detained Adna after five bags of shabu were found in his luggage.

Airport authorities confiscated the suspect’s passport, boarding pass, cell phone and personal belongings.

The foreigner is being held on charges of violating Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Filipino-American rookie guard Dylan Harper has made an immediate impact in his young NBA career, landing third in NBA.com’s first Kia Rookie Ladder released by senior writer Steve Aschburner.

The 19-year-old Harper is averaging 14.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game as the San Antonio Spurs remain undefeated to start the season.

‘Five-time NBA champion Ron Harper was 42 when his son Dylan was born, so we had no shot at ever seeing a LeBron/Bronny pairing on an active roster,’ Aschburner wrote. ‘But the five-time champion’s genes are alive and well in the Spurs rookie, who already looks savvy beyond his years. He ranks in the Top 5 among rookies in seven statistical categories.’

Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe leads the list, averaging 22.3 points per game, while Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward is a surprise at No. 2 with 16.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per outing. Aschburner described Coward as ‘a potential steal of the draft.’

Top overall pick Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks ranked fourth, posting 13 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists through four games. The Mavericks have struggled early with a 1-3 record as Flagg adjusts to the pro level.

Harper, meanwhile, is third among rookies in assists and fourth in scoring and rebounding, providing steady production while the Spurs wait for All-Star guard De’Aaron Fox to return from a right hamstring injury.

‘Not limiting myself to one thing, just trying to be all around,’ Harper said.

The rookie looked like a seasoned veteran during his home debut in San Antonio on Sunday (Monday Manila time), exploding for 20 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in just 29 minutes on an efficient 8-of-11 shooting. The Spurs won 118-107 against the Brooklyn Nets.

‘We’ve done a good job just watching film,’ Harper said. ‘They’re sitting me down, telling me what I need to correct . it’s just basketball at this point.’

Harper’s poise and versatility have drawn praise from analysts, who believe his rapid rise could create lineup challenges for San Antonio’s roulette of ultra-talented guards.

‘There’s a chance that, based on the data we have, Harper and Castle are a little farther along than anticipated,’ The Ringer’s Zach Lowe said. ‘That makes the De’Aaron Fox situation – I would classify it as a good problem to have for San Antonio. Awkward potentially in six months, but good right now.’

Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor added that the Spurs will eventually face a difficult decision on how to manage their guard depth.

‘Yes, without a doubt. But Fox can’t be traded until February 4, so there will be a long evaluation period to see how all three guards operate together,’ O’Connor said, referring to Harper, Fox, and last year’s Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle. ‘I’ve long felt one of them will have to go, but the Spurs will have time to find out. What’s clear is that Castle got better and Harper is already way ahead of schedule.’

Following the anti-corruption march in Batangas on Oct. 19, the Batangas Forum for Good Governance and Development voiced its condemnation of ‘rampant corruption in the government.’

In its manifesto of condemnation, the group called for an end to all forms of corruption, bribery and ghost projects as well as demanded justice through the imprisonment of officials and contractors found guilty of wrongdoing.

They named some officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways, local governments and the Commission on Audit.

The Batangas Forum is composed of professionals, business leaders, retired workers and other concerned citizens.

It’s now been a little more than a year since the Ramon Ang-led consortium took over the operations and maintenance of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Sept. 14, 2024, and what a year it has been for the airport operator.

From my own experience, I’ve noticed some real changes, mostly translating to a better passenger experience at the airport – faster drop-off times at the arrival and departure bays, less grid lock at the usual entry and exit points to and from the gateway and in Terminal 3, a designated area for ride-hailing services.

There are still long queues though, especially in T1 and T3, but these are mostly at the immigration counter, and congestion may even worsen this long Undas weekend but so far, the improvements are already noticeable.

Just last Tuesday, I flew out again from NAIA T1 and I continued to experience changes. For instance, there is an ongoing construction at the parking lot fronting the terminal. I’m not sure what kind of transformation will happen but hopefully, it will be for the better.

At the departure bay when I arrived, I also noticed that traffic was smooth, with drop off time kept to a minimum.

Our plane to Tokyo was also able to depart on time.

These are just some of the changes I saw when I flew out of the country last Tuesday, although it’s been months since I last traveled so I’m not sure how consistent NAIA is in implementing these improvements.

Of course, I can only speak from my experience as someone who has traveled under different NAIA eras.

But so far, based on my trips, I can really say that NAIA is now a better airport. It is still a far cry from Singapore’s famed Changi Airport, Japan’s Narita or other efficient gateways across the globe, but it is a noticeable upgrade from NAIA of decades past.

In its report on its first year of operations, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the San Miguel Corp.-led consortium that now operates the airport, shared a number of measures and changes it has successfully put in place.

These include 11,820 new chairs, 2,500 baggage trolleys, 21 new air-conditioning units and chillers and upgraded WiFi – from 1G to 10G.

All escalators, walkalators and elevators are now operational, while 34 new boarding bridges have been ordered, NNIC said.

‘Other key initiatives include the installation of 95 percent of 586 new Flight Information Display Systems for real-time updates under NAIA’s new quiet terminal concept, which minimizes background noise and relies on digital displays for flight information; the deployment of 517 biometric-enabled passenger processing units across terminals for faster check-in, boarding and security screening and the ongoing installation of 78 Immigration e-gates and 113 verification desks, with Phase 1 targeted for completion by December 2025.’

NNIC opened a dedicated OFW lounge in Terminal 3 to serve nearly half a million overseas Filipino workers, with a second lounge set to open at Terminal 1.

It also implemented operational changes, not normally seen by passengers, including reconfiguring aircraft parking stands and removing abandoned aircraft which freed up valuable space for smoother airside operations.

This enabled NAIA to add new domestic and international routes with 47 airline partners.

Between terminals, NNIC also improved passenger mobility by providing a fleet of 20 new shuttle buses, which carry more than half a million travelers between terminals.

More passengers

These changes paved the way for more passengers to travel.

Since taking over NAIA on Sept. 14, 2024, up to Sept. 13, 2025, NAIA welcomed 51.7 million passengers, 2.9 million more than the same period the year before, marking a six percent increase.

The airport also handled a total of 283,771 flights.

In terms of on-time performance, NAIA posted a record high of 92.12 percent in a single day – the highest ever recorded in the airport’s history.

Moving forward, NNIC is preparing to roll out a new facial recognition system that would enable travelers to soon check in, drop bags, clear security and board flights using just their face.

Adjustment in terminal fees

As a result of the changes and to enable the consortium to sustain the gains, NNIC has raised NAIA’s terminal fees, the first adjustment in 20 years.

The increase – set by the government with the Asian Development Bank as adviser – will put NAIA’s rates on the same level as other local airports such as in Cebu and Iloilo and will remain among the lowest in Asia.

Tycoon Ramon Ang is proud of what his team has achieved in terms of improving NAIA.

‘Operating an airport the size and scale of NAIA will always be demanding. But what this first year has shown is that with teamwork, discipline and the dedication of our people, real change is possible,’ Ang said.

Together with the government and their partners, Ang said, NNIC is committed to sustaining these gains to deliver ‘a truly world-class NAIA.’

It will not happen overnight. It will take years, perhaps even decades.

It does not help that some quarters, likely backed by old timers at NAIA, are trying to block the NNIC-led changes and are pushing to scrap the NAIA privatization.

This, however, is certainly regressive. What we should be pushing for is to make sure that Ang and NNIC deliver on their promises, through audits, specific performance indicators and commitments set in their contracts.

The promise is to transform NAIA into a world-class airport. Let’s make sure they deliver.

TCL, the No. 1 Panel TV brand in the Philippines, a Triple Global Top 1 TV brand, and a top global leader in air conditioner sales, is joining forces with its premier retail partner, Anson’s, for an exclusive showcase dedicated to their loyal customers. Marking 25 years of strong partnership, TCL and Anson’s continue to redefine excellence through innovation, quality and customer trust.

Dubbed “Beyond the Screen: A TCL x Anson’s VVIP Showcase,” this event highlights TCL’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence. The showcase will culminate in the grand reveal of the TCL × Anson’s October 15 Promo Lineup-a curated selection of top-tier TVs, air conditioners and essential home appliances designed to make premium technology accessible to all.

‘Anson’s has been a major contributor to TCL’s success in the Philippines from day one. Our relationship with Anson’s is deeply rooted and strategic. They have been instrumental in driving TCL’s growth, especially in the large-screen and premium segment, and in achieving our current market leadership status. This dedicated event is our way of celebrating that shared success and reinforcing the strong partnership we rely on as we continue to bring our innovations to consumers,’ TCL CEO Peter Chen emphasizes.

As for Ansons’ part, their strategic relationship with TCL has evolved. Transitioning from a traditional retailer-supplier model to a deep strategic alliance focused on mutual growth, market penetration, and customer experience.

‘The partnership has been a long and successful one. We’ve seen TCL evolve, continuously innovating and enhancing the quality of its product offerings. For us at Ansons, this means we can consistently provide our valued customers with great technology and reliable service. We take pride in our partnership with TCL and are strongly committed to expanding our reach within the Filipino market,’ Chen adds.

TCL honored Anson’s Appliances with a special award for their outstanding commitment to excellence. Ansons earned this recognition by becoming the first partner dealer to record the highest sales of the monumental 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV, currently the world’s largest and most advanced display. This accomplishment solidifies Ansons’ position as a market leader and a pioneer in the industry.

Beyond the screen, elevating lives

The retail space venue, Anson’s The Link, was transformed into a cinematic showcase of innovation and elegance. With the flagship 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV serving as the centerpiece, guests were fully immersed in the Beyond the Screen experience.

In addition to exploring TCL’s wide range of innovative products, guests were treated to an exceptional live performance by Asia’s Diamond Soul Siren, Nina, who serenaded the crowd with her top hits, adding a touch of elegance to the exclusive afternoon affair.

And to make the celebration even more exciting, just in time for the holidays, TCL rolled out an exclusive, limited-time promotion-offering massive discounts on a wide array of TCL products, including TVs, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators, from October 15 to 19, at all Anson’s store locations.

‘We’re thrilled to jumpstart the holiday rush with this special offer, available exclusively at Anson’s. We sincerely thank Anson’s for their unwavering support and partnership, which continues to be invaluable to TCL. Expect more exciting developments ahead as we remain focused on delivering innovations that truly elevate the quality of life for our customers,’ TCL Philippines deputy director of sales Cyd Montebon shared.

Hurry! These exclusive offers are available for a limited time only-visit your nearest Anson’s store today and upgrade to your favorite TCL appliance.

Newly crowned World Boxing Council international middleweight champion Eumir Marcial admitted he thought he would be losing when his slugfest with Venezuelan Eddy Colmenares went to the decision.

Marcial came back from being knocked down twice against Colmenares to get the majority decision victory early Thursday morning at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

The Filipino Olympic bronze medalist was sent to the canvas in the third and 10th rounds, but he managed to grab the victory after a judge scored it 94-94 and two others had him winning 95-93.

After the match, Marcial admitted he thought he would be losing.

‘Yes po. Opo. Nakabahan po ako kasi sobrang malaking score po yun pag na-knockdown. And noong [third] round, noong na-knockdown po ako, bigla ko napaisip eh na parang matatalo ako sa laban. Pero dahil po sa lahat ng mga Pilipino nandito, naririnig ko po yung coaches ko, yung corner ko,’ he told reporters.

‘Sila po yung nagbigay ng lakas sa akin. Ma-knockdown po sa [third] round, hindi po yun basta-basta. Ang hirap maka-adjust noon sa buong round. Sabi ko ano pa yung maibubuga niya. Inisip ko kung sa fourth round, mas lalakas siya. Hindi ko alam eh,’ he added.

After getting knocked down early, Marcial recovered and unleashed barrage of punches after barrage of punches. He was able to hit his opponent with power punches, but Colmenares would not go down.

And in the 10th round, the Filipino hit the floor anew after a left-and-right combination from the Venezuelan.

The judges, however, saw the match differently, giving the victory to the two-time Olympian.

‘Sinunod ko lang yung payo ng corner ko na puntos lang. Mas magaling ka dyan. Gamitin lang natin yung puntos. So yun yung ginawa namin. Yun yung naging strategy namin para makuha itong belt,’ he said.

After the match, there were already talks for a rematch.

Would he be open to it?

‘Kung yun yung hiling ng mga tao, kung yun yung ang gagawin ni Sir Manny, why not? Napasaya natin yung mga tao. Gusto ko ibalik yung dito. Thrilla in Manila II, itong stadium noong 50 years ago. Alam ko, grabe hiyawan ang mga tao,’ he said.

‘Itong gabi, I hope na napasaya ko yung mga kababayan natin. Naparamdam ko kung ano yung Thrilla in Manila noong 50 years ago.’

Marcial thus rose to a 7-0 win-loss record, while Colmenares dropped to 11-3-1 (win-loss-draw).