Philippine leader says Obama quit smoking

MANILA, Philippines, June 11 (UPI) -- Philippine President-elect Benigno Aquino says U.S. President Barack Obama told him in a phone call he has finally won his oft-reported battle against smoking.

Aquino said Obama, who has famously struggled with his tobacco addiction, told him during a recent phone call that he has finally quit the habit completely, The Daily Telegraph reported Friday.

"At some point I attempted some humor, saying 'Mr. President, I understand we have the same issue with smoking,'" Aquino said of his recent conversation with the U.S. leader. "He told me, 'I kicked the habit, so you are going to have to work on that one yourself. I can give you advice, though.'"

Aquino said Obama pledged to give him advice about quitting "at the time that you decide to quit."

The incoming Philippine president had pledged to quit on the campaign trail but later said he planned to continue smoking to help him deal with the stress of the job.