In a strategic move to consolidate its presence in the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean region, Philip Morris International (PMI) has established the new Philip Morris CCA (Caribbean, Central America, and Andean) cluster. This initiative aims to unify over 30 countries under a single operational framework, enhancing market development and regional integration. PMI emphasized that this decision underscores its dedication to fostering growth and opportunities within these diverse markets. The newly formed cluster will leverage PMI’s extensive multi-category portfolio, positioning Trinidad and Tobago (TT) as a pivotal hub for the Caribbean community. Concurrently, PMI announced the appointment of Dominic Lau as the new commercial manager for TT and the Caribbean Community (Caricom). Lau will spearhead the expansion of Philip Morris TT Ltd’s (PMTT) product portfolio, focusing on offering reduced-harm alternatives for adult smokers and ensuring responsible commercialization practices. This dual announcement highlights PMI’s commitment to innovation and regional development.
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Bureau of Standards hosts collaborative facility tour
The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) recently hosted members of the Trinidad and Tobago Chapter of the International Facility Management Association (TTIFMA) for an insightful tour of its Macoya headquarters on October 22. The visit underscored the critical role of standards, testing, and measurement in ensuring safe and efficient facilities nationwide. Participants explored various laboratories, including chemical, electrical, fibre, and materials testing units, as well as the metrology division, which offers calibration services for mass, pressure, temperature, and electrical measurements. The tour emphasized the application of international standards, such as ISO 15189:2022, to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness in facility management. Acting TTBS Executive Director Karlene Lewis described the event as a vital link between science, standards, and sustainability, highlighting the importance of integrating technical standards into everyday operations to enhance safety, efficiency, and quality of life. TTBS and TTIFMA also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s national quality infrastructure and ensuring compliance with global standards. Edward Kacal, Chair of the National Mirror Committee, praised the collaboration for fostering professional practice and operational excellence in the country.
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CSME skills certificate opens doors across Caribbean
The Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) Skills Certificate has emerged as a transformative tool for skilled Caribbean nationals, enabling them to live, work, and thrive across member states without the need for a work permit. This initiative, formally known as the Certificate of Recognition of Caricom Skills Qualification, has empowered hundreds of individuals to pursue careers, establish businesses, and maintain family unity while relocating to another Caribbean country.
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Appeal Court reinstates NOVO’s border control claim
In a landmark ruling, the Court of Appeal has reinstated NOVO Technology’s multimillion-dollar claim against the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (AATT), overturning a High Court decision that had dismissed the case as an abuse of process. The appeal, presided over by Justices Peter Rajkumar, Ronnie Boodoosingh, and James Aboud, unanimously found that NOVO’s second claim, filed after the termination of a contract during the COVID-19 pandemic, was legitimate and not an abuse of process. The judges criticized the High Court’s earlier decision, stating that it had erred in striking out the claim. NOVO is seeking over $50 million in damages for alleged breach of contract and non-payment, following what it claims was an unlawful termination by the AATT under a force majeure clause. The Court of Appeal emphasized that the doctrine of abuse of process should only apply where a defendant can demonstrate oppression or harassment, which the AATT failed to prove. The court ordered the consolidation of NOVO’s first and second claims, remitting the case to a new High Court judge for case management and trial. The ruling also highlighted that the matters in dispute arose after the initial suit was filed, making the second claim a genuine subject of litigation. Additionally, the court ordered the AATT to pay NOVO’s legal costs, totaling $262,500. This decision paves the way for the continuation of the airport modernization project, which includes the installation of eGates, boarding gates, and automated kiosks designed to streamline immigration processing and reduce passenger wait times. NOVO has previously implemented similar border control systems in Guyana, significantly improving efficiency and traveler convenience.
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CWI thanks Windies legends for ‘Mission India’ tour
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has expressed profound gratitude to iconic players Brian Lara, Vivian Richards, and Richie Richardson for their pivotal roles in the ‘Mission India’ corporate engagement tour. This initiative aimed to foster corporate partnerships and enhance the global appeal of the West Indies cricket brand. The tour coincided with the West Indies’ two-match Test series in India from October 2 to October 14, with CWI officially acknowledging the legends’ contributions in a release on October 21. The delegation, led by CWI CEO Chris Dehring and chief commercial officer Rupert Hunter, visited Delhi and Mumbai to explore sponsorship and broadcast opportunities in the Indian market. The legends’ participation in numerous meetings generated significant enthusiasm, reigniting global interest in West Indies cricket. Dehring emphasized the legends’ unwavering dedication, stating, ‘Their willingness to give of themselves so freely speaks volumes about their love and passion for West Indies cricket.’ The tour also included a special golf day, where the legends interacted with current players and team management, further strengthening the bond between past and present cricketing generations. While the release did not confirm any immediate sponsorship deals, it highlighted the enduring influence of West Indies cricket and its legends on global audiences.
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New Chief Justice’s pledge: I will do my best
Justice of Appeal Ronnie Boodoosingh has officially assumed the role of Trinidad and Tobago’s ninth Chief Justice, succeeding Ivor Archie, who retired on October 22. Boodoosingh was sworn in by acting President Wade Mark at a ceremony held at the President’s House in St. Ann’s. The appointment followed the constitutional process outlined in Section 102, requiring consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. While Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar expressed support, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles criticized the consultation process as flawed. Boodoosingh, a seasoned jurist with over three decades of legal experience, pledged to serve with humility, diligence, and integrity. He paid tribute to Archie, highlighting his contributions to modernizing the judiciary, including the introduction of electronic filing and virtual courtrooms. Boodoosingh also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Archie’s family and expressed gratitude for his own family’s support. The ceremony was attended by key government officials, including Attorney General John Jeremie and Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander. Acting President Wade Mark praised the seamless transition, emphasizing the stability and independence of the judiciary. Boodoosingh’s appointment has been widely welcomed by the legal fraternity, with hopes that his leadership will enhance access to justice and restore public confidence in the judiciary.
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Carter continues hunt for third medal at Swimming World Cup
Trinidad and Tobago’s swimming sensation, Dylan Carter, is set to make waves at the 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup as he prepares for the third leg of the competition in Toronto, Canada, starting October 23. The 29-year-old athlete has already showcased his prowess in the earlier stages of the tournament, securing two bronze medals and demonstrating consistent performance across multiple events. In the first leg held in Indiana on October 11, Carter clinched bronze in the men’s 50-meter backstroke. He followed this up with another bronze in the 50m freestyle final during the second leg in Illinois on October 17. Additionally, Carter has achieved notable placements, including fourth in the 50m freestyle and fifth in the 50m butterfly finals in Indiana, as well as a joint fifth-place finish in the 50m backstroke finale in Illinois. In Toronto, Carter will commence his campaign in the 50m freestyle, competing in lane five during the sixth and final heat, scheduled for 12.07 pm (TT time) on October 23, with the final set for 7.09 pm the same day. The competition promises to be fierce, with American Chris Guliano and Canada’s Ilya Kharun having already set impressive times in the previous legs. Carter will also participate in the men’s 50m backstroke heats on October 24 and the 50m butterfly heats the following day, as he continues his quest for glory on the international stage.
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Hillview, Mucurapo West clinch SSFL championship division titles
The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) season has reached a thrilling juncture as Hillview College and Mucurapo West Secondary have secured their places in the prestigious Big 5 playoffs. These playoffs, set to commence on October 29, serve as the gateway to the premier division for the following season. Both schools clinched their respective zonal titles on October 21, showcasing their dominance in the championship division. Hillview College, representing the east zone, concluded their campaign with a flawless record, amassing 24 points and a commanding goal difference. Their emphatic 4-0 victory over El Dorado East in their final match solidified their status as east zone champions. Meanwhile, in the north zone, Mucurapo West Secondary edged out East Mucurapo by a single point, sealing their triumph with a resounding 9-0 win against Diego Martin Central. The south zone remains undecided, with Pleasantville Secondary temporarily leading after a 4-0 victory over Rio Claro West. However, Palo Seco Secondary, with two games in hand, remains the favorite to claim the title. Their postponed match against Point Fortin East, delayed due to a bee infestation, is set to be replayed on October 24. In the central zone, Presentation College (Chaguanas) awaits a ruling from the league’s Appeals Committee following an appeal by Chaguanas North Secondary regarding an abandoned fixture. Should the appeal be dismissed, Presentation will be crowned central champions. Speyside Secondary has already secured the Tobago zone title and is poised to begin their Big 5 campaign against the south zone winners. The upcoming Big 5 tournament promises intense competition as these top schools vie for promotion to the premier division.
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Playwrights Workshop hosts dramatic reading of Help by Kaithlyn De Gazon
Playwrights Workshop Trinbago (PWT), in partnership with the Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW) and Torch Theatre Company, is set to present a dramatic reading of Kaithlyn De Gazon’s poignant play, ‘Help,’ on October 24. The event will take place at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, located at 6 Newbold Street, St Clair, starting at 7 pm. This monthly series of dramatic readings offers a platform for emerging playwrights to showcase their work and engage with the audience.
‘Help’ delves into the harrowing journey of a young girl grappling with the ghosts of her past and the emotional turmoil they evoke. The narrative explores how these internal struggles profoundly impact her relationships with those around her. The play, which marks De Gazon’s debut as a playwright, was first introduced in the PWT Monthly Readers Theatre Series (MRTS) in 2021 and later featured as a dramatic reading at the 2023 Bocas Lit Fest.
Kaithlyn De Gazon, a theatre arts teacher and graduate of the University of the West Indies (UWI) with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts, has a rich background in the performing arts. Her journey began as a dancer in secondary school, eventually leading her to acting and technical theatre.
PWT is extending an invitation to actors, playwrights, directors, producers, and the general public to attend the reading and participate in a post-performance discussion. This dialogue aims to provide constructive feedback to assist De Gazon in further refining her script. The discussion will be conducted with sensitivity, given the play’s exploration of themes such as severe depression and suicide. Attendees are advised to exercise discretion due to the intense subject matter.
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The mystical oilbird
In a serendipitous encounter, an oilbird was discovered roosting at St. Benedict’s College in La Romaine, south Trinidad, far from its known colonies. This rare sighting provided a unique teaching opportunity for the school staff. The oilbird, a nocturnal marvel, is one of the most remarkable yet overlooked species in Trinidad’s rich biodiversity. Unlike the vibrant hummingbird or the powerful hawk-eagle, the oilbird’s unassuming appearance belies its extraordinary adaptations and ecological significance. Native to Trinidad, which shares much of its ecology with South America, the oilbird thrives in darkness, spending its days in lightless caves and emerging at night to forage. With a wingspan exceeding one metre, these birds embark on nightly journeys, sometimes covering over 100 kilometres in search of their exclusive diet of fruits from palms, laurels, and bursera trees. This dietary specialization makes them vital seed dispersers, ensuring the propagation of their food trees. Oilbirds possess unique sensory adaptations, including echolocation and an unparalleled sensitivity to light, with retinal rod densities of one million rods per millimetre—the highest among vertebrates. Their social structure is equally fascinating, with monogamous pairs raising broods in large colonies that can number in the thousands. Despite their ecological importance, oilbirds face threats from human exploitation, historically hunted for their oil and meat. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this enigmatic species and its habitat, ensuring its survival alongside humanity.