Philip Morris eyes stronger sustainability initiatives in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Global tobacco giant Philip Morris International (PMI) is looking to expand its sustainability initiatives in the Philippines.

PMI chief sustainability officer Jennifer Motles said the company is optimistic that new initiatives aimed at supporting local communities and the environment could be implemented within the year.

“The answer is yes. We’re always innovating, working with creative minds that are seeking to create a positive impact on the planet and in society,” she told reporters in a media roundtable.

“There’s always new initiatives in the Philippines and in the world when it comes to sustainability at PMI,” she said.

She added that the company typically conducts pilot program for targeted projects and scale it up once key performance indicators (KPIs) for social or environmental impact

“We normally pilot programs, we define KPIs to measure the impact, then we see what the impact of the intervention is. If the intervention is being impactful and positive, then we scale up,” Motles said.

She added that PMI’s initiatives include its push for smoke-free cigarette alternatives to reduce carbon emissions by offering “better alternatives that work to phase out cigarettes.”

She noted that the company is ensuring that these products will not reach underage consumers.

Motles said that PMI’s current workforce in the Philippines creates employment opportunities for about 5,000 Filipinos.

“We have two manufacturing facilities that have a workforce that spreads all around the Philippines. That means we are employing local people which can contribute to the economic development here,” she added.

Human rights

Philip Morris is also taking steps to reduce human rights abuses for its contract tobacco farmers, by implementing measures to prevent cases of child labor or forced labor among its contract growers.

“We take a lot of proactive measures to prevent human rights issues like child labor or forced labor. This has a good impact because it becomes a best practice in how you operate and interact with agriculture,” Motles said.

PMI operates in the Philippines through PMFTC Inc. a 50-50 business venture with LT Group Inc.