PR in the Philippines

Following the U.S. Figure Skating Championships and National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas, a plane carrying several members of the figure skating community collided with a helicopter. There are no survivors. The news is incredibly difficult to process, especially given a similar tragedy in our sport's history. In 1961, a plane carrying figure skaters and others en route to the World Championships in Prague crashed in Brussels, resulting in no survivors. The skating world lost 18 skaters and 16 coaches, judges, and family members. The impact of this loss continues to resonate with champions even today, nearly 64 years later. As an Olympic gold medalist, attorney, and member of the U.S. figure skating community, I can attest to the close-knit nature of our sport. While often perceived as intensely competitive, we are, in reality, a family. We compete *with* each other, not just *against* each other. This camaraderie was evident at the recent National Championships, where champion Amber Glenn extended good luck wishes to a fellow competitor. These bonds and shared experiences are fundamental to who we are. This makes the loss of life in Flight 5342 particularly devastating and its impact will be felt for years to come. Figure skating presents numerous challenges: the constant push to one's limits, the mental fortitude required, the balance of training with other aspects of life, and the pressure of performing under intense scrutiny. The sport is both exhilarating and humbling, demanding respect among its participants. Some days are great, others less so. But that's the nature of figure skating. The term "skating family" is apt. Skaters eat, train, travel, compete, laugh, and cry together, often spending more time with their skating peers than their biological families. News of the plane crash at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, involving young skaters, parents, and coaches returning from the National Development Camp, was deeply distressing. This camp, established to support aspiring Team USA members, fosters strong bonds among its participants. The fully in-person 2023 camp received overwhelmingly positive feedback. The camp, held alongside the National Championships, offered valuable on and off-ice training experiences. For many young athletes, it's the shared experiences – bus rides, meals, movie nights – that create lasting memories. These are the memories these young skaters were making. This tragedy's impact is profoundly difficult to comprehend. Many of my fondest skating memories come from my early competitive years, forming lifelong bonds. I qualified for my first National Championships at 12, a similar age to some of the skaters at the camp. Experiencing these "firsts" – sectionals, international competitions – alongside peers creates unforgettable moments. The loss of these young lives, so full of promise, is incomprehensible. My thoughts are with all those grieving. Beyond the potential loss of future Olympic champions, this crash affects the heart of figure skating: the relationships, friendships, and shared experiences. In many lives, a cherished time has been irrevocably altered.  U.S. Figure Skating established a memorial fund after the 1961 tragedy, supporting skaters through scholarships, highlighting that skating is more than just the sport itself. The creation of a similar fund in 2025 to aid those affected by this latest tragedy, while unimaginable, is a necessary step for our community. We are all in mourning—again.

BEIJING — In response to President Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods, China implemented its own tariffs on various U.S. imports on Tuesday. Simultaneously, China announced an antitrust investigation into Google and other trade actions. These retaliatory tariffs include a 15% levy on coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine vehicles imported from the U.S. The tariffs are set to take effect next Monday. A Ministry of Finance statement declared the U.S.'s unilateral tariff increases a violation of World Trade Organization rules, arguing they hinder economic and trade cooperation between China and the U.S. and fail to resolve existing problems. Furthermore, China's State Administration for Market Regulation launched an antitrust investigation into Google, citing suspected violations of antitrust laws. The announcement, though unrelated to the tariffs, followed shortly after Trump's 10% tariffs on China went into effect. U.S. tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico were also scheduled for implementation on Tuesday. However, Trump temporarily suspended the tariffs on Mexico and Canada for 30 days, following their concessions regarding border security and drug trafficking. Trump planned to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the following days. Beyond tariffs, China introduced export controls on several elements vital to high-tech manufacturing: tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium. Many of these are categorized as critical minerals by the U.S. Geological Survey due to their importance to U.S. economic and national security and vulnerable supply chains. These export controls build upon similar measures implemented by China in December targeting key elements like gallium. The Commerce Ministry also added two American companies – PVH Group (owner of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger) and Illumina (a biotechnology firm) – to its “unreliable entities” list. This listing prohibits them from engaging in China-related import/export activities and new investments in the country. —Wu reported from Bangkok.

WASHINGTON — On Monday, the billionaire tech entrepreneur tweeted that he had “deleted” 18F, a government agency involved in projects like the IRS’ Direct File program. This caused confusion regarding Direct File’s availability, but the free filing program remains accessible, at least for the upcoming tax season. Although Musk’s tweet suggested the team's elimination, a source familiar with the IRS workforce confirmed that Direct File continues to process tax returns. The source, who spoke to The Associated Press anonymously due to lack of authorization, provided this information. As of Monday evening, both 18F's and Direct File's websites were functioning normally. However, the digital services agency's X account had been removed. The IRS announced last year its intention to make the free electronic tax return filing system permanent, requesting assistance from all 50 states and the District of Columbia in facilitating taxpayer returns through the program in 2025. The Direct File trial launched in March 2024. However, the IRS has faced significant opposition to Direct File from private tax preparation companies, which have profited billions from their software and spent millions lobbying Congress. The average American typically spends about $140 annually on tax preparation. Commercial tax preparation companies that lobbied against the free file program contend that free file options already exist. Several organizations, including private tax firms, offer free online tax preparation assistance to taxpayers meeting specific income requirements. The IRS website provides fillable forms, but these are complex, requiring taxpayers to calculate their tax liability independently. Last May, the IRS announced the permanent implementation of the Direct File program. Currently available in 25 states, it expanded from the 12 states included in last year's pilot program. The program enables individuals in select states with straightforward W-2s to compute and submit their returns directly to the IRS. The IRS reported in October that users of the 2024 pilot program claimed over $90 million in refunds. During his January 16 confirmation hearing, Scott Bessent, now Treasury Secretary, pledged to maintain the Direct File program at least through the 2025 tax season, which began January 27. Musk responded to an X user who labeled 18F as “far left” and suggested Direct File places the government in charge of tax preparation. Musk stated, “That group has been deleted.”

WASHINGTON — The Senate confirmed Chris Wright, a fossil fuel executive, as the new energy secretary on Monday. This key role will support President Trump's pursuit of U.S. energy dominance globally. Wright, Liberty Energy's CEO, has been a prominent industry voice opposing climate change mitigation efforts. He contends that increased fossil fuel production alleviates global poverty and pledges to help Trump achieve energy security and prosperity. The Senate approved his nomination by a 59-38 vote. This included support from eight Democrats, among them both senators from his home state, Colorado. Trump's energy plan centers on maximizing domestic fossil fuel production—oil, natural gas, and coal—and dismantling what he terms Democrats' "green new scam". These fuels contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. At his confirmation hearing, Wright expressed shared enthusiasm for Trump's energy vision, promising to diligently implement his agenda as a proponent of affordable, reliable, and secure American energy from all sources. This includes oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear and hydropower, as well as renewable sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy, according to Wright. Trump's energy ambitions may encounter practical limitations, including already high U.S. oil production. The government can't mandate increased oil drilling, and production hikes could potentially lower prices and reduce industry profits. Wyoming Senator John Barrasso, the second-ranking Republican, praised Wright as an innovative leader who is forthright about energy production. Barrasso described Wright as acknowledging climate change while advocating for increased American energy production as a solution, not an obstacle, referring to it as "energy realism." Senator Mike Lee, a Utah Republican and chair of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, stated that Wright understands the importance of abundant and affordable energy for families and businesses. “Our nation deserves a champion for American energy and innovation, and we’ve got the Wright guy for the job,” Lee announced on X. Colorado's two Democratic senators backed their state's nominee. Senator John Hickenlooper highlighted Wright's scientific background and commitment to affordable, reliable, and clean energy, emphasizing that it lowers costs and enhances national security. Despite disagreements, Hickenlooper expressed a willingness to collaborate. “While we don’t always agree, we will work together because none of us have four years to wait to act,” Hickenlooper stated. Senator Michael Bennet lauded Wright's entrepreneurial success and expertise in energy innovation and technology, promising to work with him to ensure Colorado's continued leadership in energy production and innovation. While acknowledging climate change, Wright stated during his hearing that he doesn't distinguish between "dirty" and "clean" energy, emphasizing the varied trade-offs among different energy sources. Wright, 60, has led Liberty Energy since 2011 and lacks prior government experience. A Colorado native, he holds degrees from MIT and UC Berkeley in electrical engineering. He founded Pinnacle Technologies in 1992, contributing to the growth of commercial shale gas production through fracking. He later chaired Stroud Energy before establishing Liberty Resources in 2010. As energy secretary, Wright will collaborate with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on energy policy. Both will serve on a new National Energy Council chaired by Burgum, encompassing all executive branch agencies involved in energy. The council will focus on streamlining regulations and boosting domestic energy production, representing a significant shift from President Biden's climate-focused policies. Wright stated he would sever all industry ties upon confirmation. Lena Moffitt of Evergreen Action, an environmental group, criticized Democrats for not unanimously opposing Wright’s nomination. “Senate Republicans just handed Trump’s Big Oil allies the keys to the Department of Energy,” she stated. She expressed concern that Wright’s appointment will hinder clean energy investments, increase energy prices, and perpetuate reliance on fossil fuels. Moffitt urged Democrats to actively counter Trump's pro-fossil fuel policies. ```

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Kate Cole, a 34-year-old transgender woman, currently desires continued military service, despite post-retirement plans to work as a climbing guide in Colorado. She values her military community and career. Cole, one of six transgender service members suing the Trump Administration, emphasizes the importance of her military service and community. The lawsuit challenges the January 27th Executive Order banning transgender individuals from enlisting and openly serving. While the Department of Defense's implementation of the ban remains unclear, the Executive Order threatens the employment of Cole and other transgender service members. The National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) and GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD Law) filed a federal lawsuit on January 28th in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing the ban violates equal protection. This Executive Order expands upon a similar 2017 directive prohibiting transgender individuals from military enlistment. The current order, however, also mandates the discharge of currently serving transgender service members. (Two individuals hoping to enlist are also plaintiffs). GLAD Law and the NCLR previously challenged the 2017 ban. A judge temporarily blocked it for two years, but in 2019, the Supreme Court allowed the Executive Order to proceed while lower courts deliberated. President Biden repealed the ban in 2021. Cole, a long-serving member, expressed prior concerns but hoped the ban wouldn’t be reinstated, given her years of open and honorable service. She and other transgender service members simply wish to continue their duties without disruption, noting widespread support for their service. Trump's Executive Order directs Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to implement the ban within 60 days, also calling for an end to the use of gender-affirming pronouns. The President argues transgender individuals, possessing a "false gender identity," fail to meet military standards, equating gender identity with medical conditions barring enlistment. Trump's Executive Order, titled "Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness," asserts that a transgender person's claim to a different gender is incompatible with the military's requirements for humility, selflessness, and an honorable lifestyle. Jennifer Levi, senior director at GLAD Law, labels the policy discriminatory and lacking principle, rooted solely in hostility toward transgender people. Estimates of the number of transgender service members in the U.S. vary, ranging from 8,000 (National Institute of Health article) to 15,500. Levi expresses optimism about the lawsuit's outcome, citing the 2020 Bostock v. Clayton County ruling, which protects workers from employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This precedent strengthens the legal challenge, although it's not guaranteed to be easy, particularly given Trump's prior rejection of the Bostock decision. Regardless of the legal outcome, Levi highlights the significant harm inflicted upon the LGBTQ+ community by the Trump administration's actions, causing widespread concern and potential loss of medical care and employment. Cole aims to highlight the harm inflicted upon the transgender community and underscore the value of transgender service members. She and many others actively serve, demonstrating the capabilities and dedication of transgender personnel, advocating for equal opportunities for all qualified individuals to serve their country. ```

In Washington, D.C., Presidents Trump and Sheinbaum agreed to a one-month delay on planned tariffs, allowing further negotiations. Mexico pledged to deploy 10,000 National Guard members to combat drug trafficking. Tariffs against Canada and China remain scheduled for implementation, leaving uncertainty about the long-term impact and potential for wider trade conflict, as President Trump has indicated further import taxes are forthcoming. The tariff pause followed what Trump called a “very friendly conversation,” with both leaders expressing optimism about upcoming discussions. Trump stated that Secretary of State Rubio, Secretary of the Treasury Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Lutnick, and high-ranking Mexican officials would lead the negotiations. President Trump stated his anticipation for collaborating with President Sheinbaum in these negotiations to reach a bilateral agreement. President Sheinbaum outlined necessary border policy adjustments as a precondition for the talks, and Trump acknowledged Mexico's troop deployment. “Mexico will reinforce the northern border with 10,000 members of the National Guard immediately, to stop drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States, in particular fentanyl,” Sheinbaum announced on X. “The United States commits to work to stop the trafficking of high-powered weapons to Mexico.” President Trump earlier reported speaking with the Canadian Prime Minister and planned a follow-up conversation. Both Canada and Mexico had planned retaliatory measures, but Mexico has temporarily suspended its response. Trump reiterated his criticisms of Canada's lack of cooperation, despite their long history of friendship and partnerships. “Canada doesn’t even allow U.S. Banks to open or do business there,” Trump stated. “What’s that all about? Many such things, but it’s also a DRUG WAR, and hundreds of thousands of people have died in the U.S. from drugs pouring through the Borders of Mexico and Canada.” Financial markets, businesses, and consumers are preparing for potential tariff impacts. Initial stock market reactions indicated some optimism that the tariffs, with their inflationary and disruptive potential, might be short-lived. However, significant uncertainty remains about the President's stance on tariffs, given his past advocacy and even suggesting that the 1913 shift to income tax was a mistake. Trump previously stated that the tariffs would be lifted if Canada and Mexico strengthened their efforts against illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling, though specific criteria remain unclear. He also insisted that the U.S. can no longer tolerate trade imbalances with its largest trading partners. Mexico faces a 25% tariff, while Canada would face a 25% tariff on imports and a 10% tariff on energy products. China faces an additional 10% tariff due to its role in fentanyl production and distribution, according to the White House. Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, downplayed the situation as a trade war, despite potential retaliations and escalation risks. “Read the executive order where President Trump was absolutely, 100% clear that this is not a trade war,” Hassett said. “This is a drug war.” Even if the focus is on drugs, Trump's comments frequently highlight his belief that foreign countries exploit the United States through trade surpluses. He recently announced impending tariffs on the European Union. He has presented tariffs as a diplomatic tool for national security issues, a revenue-raising measure, and a means to renegotiate trade agreements. Multiple outside economists have warned that the tariffs would increase prices and hinder growth, contradicting Trump's past campaign promises to control inflation. Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, stated that while a U.S. recession this year is unlikely, the tariffs would negatively impact growth and increase government borrowing costs, potentially raising mortgage and auto loan interest rates. “If there is no resolution, the impact on the U.S. economy will be significant,” he said. “Growth will slow notably from the 2.9% average over the past three years as inflation and interest rates rise. The yield on the 10-year Treasury, currently around 4.5%, could climb to a range between 4.75% and 5%.” __ Sherman reported from Mexico City.