More than 75,000 Filipino smokers joined the 18.5 million smokers globally in almost 70 countries who have quit cigarettes completely for heated tobacco which has been scientifically validated as a much better alternative to smoking.
PMFTC embarked on its bold vision to deliver a smoke-free Philippines in June 2020. Three years after it was launched, an estimated 75,000 Filipinos quit smoking cigarettes and adopted IQOS, a device that heats without burning tobacco.
PMFTC, the local affiliate of Philip Morris International Inc., launched IQOS in June 2020 in the pilot area of Metro Manila and has since expanded its presence nationwide.
“We remain steadfast on our vision to deliver a smoke-free Pilipinas. We are optimistic that more adult smokers will quit cigarettes as we continue to innovate and expand our presence in the country,” said PMFTC communication director Dave Gomez.
HeatControl is a patented technology used in IQOS that precisely heats, without burning, tobacco-filled sticks wrapped in paper called HEETS to release a water-based aerosol. Unlike cigarettes, IQOS does not burn tobacco and therefore produces no smoke and no ash.
PMFTC introduced a more affordable device called BONDS by IQOS in November 2022.
“If only all the 16 million Filipino smokers who don’t quit would switch to heated tobacco products, imagine the significant reduction in smoking-related diseases in the country,” Gomez said.
PMFTC launched IQOS Together.X – a series of events exclusive only to IQOS CLUB members – the first of its kind in the Philippines, in celebration its 3rd anniversary,
IQOS CLUB members were treated to a craft-beverage journey at OTO in Poblacion, Makati on June 17. They experienced a special tasting menu served by the award-winning team of TOYO Eatery on June 23.
The culminating night of IQOS Together.X was celebrated at The Yuchengco Museum on June 29 where the 2021-2022 winners of the Philippine Art Awards are on exhibit. Signature offerings from The Moment Catering and festivities were the highlights of the event attended by over 150 members.