PMI - What's with the recent hiring freeze whispers?

Has anyone else picked up on the chatter about a potential hiring freeze or slowdown at Philip Morris? I'm in [another department, e.g., IT/Finance] and we've been told that new requisitions are being put on hold for the time being. It's being framed as a "strategic pause" but it feels like more than that. Combined with the recent restructuring announcements (which seemed pretty broad), I'm starting to get a bit nervous. It’s hard to ignore the signs when internal mobility seems to have dried up too. Anyone who's been through cycles like this at PMI or similar companies, what are the usual precursors? Just trying to understand the current climate better and if this is a sign of bigger things to come. Would appreciate any genuine insights, not just speculation. Thanks.