PR in the Philippines

Recent news regarding investor reactions to climate change may seem discouraging. The rise of AI has dominated financial sector interest and investment, while the Trump Administration's rollback of climate policies has led some investors to abandon climate-focused ventures. If these developments are disheartening, Tom Steyer's perspective might offer encouragement. Steyer, previously a 2020 presidential candidate, has returned to finance, now concentrating on climate change investments. During a recent interview in San Francisco, he dismissed concerns about the impact of the Trump Administration and the broader climate pullback on his business. He emphasizes the strong economic fundamentals. "The financial prospects for this transition are better than anticipated," he stated, citing the ongoing expansion of clean energy technologies. "While rhetoric fluctuates, the facts ultimately demonstrate reality." His firm, Galvanize Climate Solutions, focuses on equities, real estate, and venture and growth investments. Galvanize seeks opportunities that both advance climate goals and generate above-market returns, independently of government policy support. "This will succeed if we win in the marketplace," he insists. "We don't rely on subsidies, government funding, or altruism." Consider real estate, for example. Galvanize combines real estate expertise with insights into the financial benefits of decarbonizing properties, such as cost reductions from energy efficiency and on-site renewables. This, in turn, increases the property's value. "It's about understanding technology, costs, buildings, and real estate markets," he explains. Steyer is not alone in his commitment to climate investment, although few are as vocal or resolute. Some major financial institutions maintain their commitment to climate-friendly deals when economically viable. However, the widespread enthusiasm for climate-related investments has diminished, even before the Trump Administration took office in January. A from PitchBook indicated a third consecutive year of decline in venture funding for climate tech, down over 17% from the previous year. Morningstar reported that U.S. ESG funds experienced outflows in every quarter of the past year. Steyer contends that this shift in sentiment presents a favorable environment for climate investors. His argument centers on the supply and demand of capital. He believes that there are currently more investment-worthy opportunities in climate and decarbonization than available capital. This translates to a wider selection of opportunities and improved deal terms for investors willing to commit. "From an investor's perspective, this is positive," he notes. "However, it may not be ideal for the country or the world." I've spoken with Steyer on numerous occasions, particularly during his political career. Yet, this endeavor seems to be his most significant environmental contribution. He believes that "success is the most persuasive argument" for encouraging private sector climate action. ```

` tags. Due to a potential issue with power steering, Tesla is recalling over 375,000 vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects specific 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that have operating software versions older than 2023.38.4. The NHTSA stated that the electronic power steering assist's printed circuit board could become overloaded. This could lead to a loss of power steering assistance when the vehicle stops and then accelerates. Drivers may need to exert more effort to control the car if the power steering fails, especially when driving at slower speeds, which raises the possibility of an accident. Tesla has stated that they are not aware of any accidents, injuries, or fatalities linked to this issue. The electric car manufacturer, led by Elon Musk, has released a complimentary software update to resolve the problem. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed to vehicle owners around March 25. Vehicle owners can contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.

` tags. ```xml Back in the late 1980s, at age 17, I fell for a 19-year-old coworker from another country. After work, he'd return home. Our relationship continued through love letters (international calls were too expensive). I saw each letter as incredibly romantic. About six months into our relationship, a letter arrived addressed to “Mrs. [his last name].” My mother was concerned, viewing it as possessive and too serious. She insisted I break up with him. I did, but I was still in love and secretly continued writing letters. I thought being called "Mrs." was romantic and that my mom was exaggerating. At 21, after five years of a long-distance relationship, we started dating in person. I believed it was true love. By 24, I was experiencing emotional abuse and physical threats, feeling lost. It happens gradually. I was confused by his behavior because he'd express his love while mistreating me. I was educated and aware of domestic violence, but I didn't know how to handle the confusion, the feeling of being frozen, and the gaslighting. Society often blames women for staying, so I felt that if I stayed or loved him, the abuse was my fault. According to the American College of Surgeons, intimate partner violence is the primary cause of severe injury or death for women aged 18 to 24 in the U.S. If this surprises you, it's time to take notice. This also affects adolescent girls, with increasing numbers being killed by their partners. A found that 7% of teen homicides were committed by current or former partners. Adolescence is a crucial developmental period where young individuals are susceptible to societal influences. The rise of misogyny (like the spread of as a slogan), an in forced and violent sex against girls, and a culture that as a girls’ problem, rather than a boys’ problem, may worsen the already significant teen mental health crisis. Teen dating violence (TDV) is a of (IPV), encompassing "physical violence, sexual violence and coercion, psychological aggression, and stalking," and is linked to an risk for future intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, mental and physical health issues, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. In 2025, at least in the U.S. have dealt with teen dating violence, according to Love Is Respect, and it is seriously affecting them. Intimate partner violence impacts people of all genders and backgrounds, although it and other marginalized groups disproportionately. "The links between TDV and negative results were more commonly reported among females than males." Sadly, this imbalance extends to the homicide rate for TDV as well. Ninety percent of adolescents murdered by a partner are girls. Teen issues are often dismissed, yet teens are affected by our nation's most overlooked problems. They are most at , which is the primary cause of death for young people in America, and they are experiencing trauma at higher rates. Adding intimate partner violence to a teen’s already-stressful life can severely impact their future well-being and relationships. American teen girls have seen a recent increase in depression and anxiety. In February 2023, the reported that 1 in 5 girls experienced sexual violence in the past year, and 1 in 10 were forced to have sex, a 20% and 27% increase since 2017. Additionally, a shocking 1 in 3 girls reported seriously considering suicide. It's time to act. We can help young people prepare for and learn about teen intimate partner violence. First, take teens and their relationships seriously. Don't dismiss teen love as unreal. Instead, use it as a chance to ensure they develop healthy relationship ideals. Second, teach children about consent and healthy relationships. Point out examples and make it a regular conversation. Third, when intimate partner violence is in the news, avoid blaming the victim. This silence keeps survivors afraid. Instead of asking "Why didn't she leave?", ask "Why did he abuse his family?" Asking “Why didn’t she leave?” or “Why did she go back?” teaches young people, including future survivors, to blame the victim and discourages them from leaving harmful relationships. Lastly, take abusive behavior seriously and discuss it openly. Don't just say "break up with him." Explain why, discuss red flags, and define abuse. Educate yourself. Abusers often start abusing after trapping their target through isolation, marriage, or parenthood. Being trapped is often due to bad luck, not bad judgment. Talking about it breaks the silence and encourages survivors to leave, find safety, and share their experiences. For me, sharing my story and helping teen survivors share theirs has been the best way to heal from the impact on my life and self-worth. I hope we can understand intimate partner violence, overcome the stigma, and support survivors by being trustworthy adults during difficult times. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline via text or call at . ```

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A decade after wellness influencer Belle Gibson admitted to fabricating her terminal brain cancer diagnosis, which she falsely claimed to have cured through a healthy lifestyle that propelled her to fame, her story has inspired a new Netflix series. This has reignited public anger in Australia due to the unresolved nature of the case. Authorities announced this week that they are continuing to pursue the discredited Instagram personality for unpaid penalties. This action has intensified the ongoing public resentment in Australia concerning one of the nation's most audacious online deceptions, which highlighted the detrimental effects of misleading health information on social media. Apple Cider Vinegar, Netflix's dramatized account of Gibson's narrative released this month, omits the events that transpired after the revelation in 2015 that she was not ill. In reality, she was never prosecuted criminally. However, in 2017, an Australian federal court imposed a fine of 410,000 Australian dollars ($261,000) on her for funds raised for charity that she failed to donate. A spokesperson for the consumer protection agency in Victoria stated to The Associated Press that they are still working to recover these funds. What was Belle Gibson charged with? Gibson's health-focused recipe application, The Whole Pantry, garnered 200,000 downloads within a month from the Apple store in 2013. She asserted that earnings from the app and her cookbook—published under a Penguin imprint—would be allocated to charitable organizations and to the family of a child battling cancer. Only 2% of the total funds were donated, and Gibson was determined to have violated consumer protection laws. A court mandated that she provide the remaining funds and prohibited her from making further health claims. In a communication to the court, Gibson stated that she was in debt, unemployed, and unable to meet the financial obligations. "Consumer Affairs Victoria has continued to take steps to enforce the debt owed by Annabelle Natalie Gibson (Belle Gibson) under court order," the agency said in a statement released Wednesday. The statement did not specify whether any of the money had been recovered. Authorities have conducted two raids on Gibson’s residence in an effort to seize assets, but the outcomes were not publicly disclosed. What is she saying now? The AP attempted to contact Gibson for her input, but no response was received. She has refrained from making public statements for several years and had no involvement with, nor was she compensated by, the producers of the Netflix program. Jacinta Allan, the premier of Victoria, expressed her "disappointment" this month that the matter remains unresolved. However, she assured reporters that authorities "won't relent." Richard Guilliatt, the journalist who initially reported Gibson’s deception in 2015, noted that the absence of legal repercussions continues to fuel "resentment" toward the former influencer. "The situation persists as a kind of unresolved issue," he commented. "Her experience has been one of immense public shaming. I tend to think that people will eventually need to move on." Did the case prompt changes? Gibson's book publisher paid a $30,000 ($19,000 US) fine in the civil case for neglecting to verify her claims. While Gibson has not faced additional charges, her case has had other consequences. Australia's regulations regarding therapeutic health claims underwent significant revisions in 2022, and breaches can now result in fines amounting to millions of dollars—modifications that some analysts partially attribute to Gibson's actions. Paid endorsements for such products are now prohibited, and individuals asserting expertise in health matters are barred from endorsing them. "This would have been applicable to the therapeutic claims made by Belle," commented Suzy Madar, a partner at the Sydney-based law firm King & Wood Mallesons. How have Australians responded to the series? Apple Cider Vinegar has been commended for its critique of online wellness culture—while also drawing criticism from Australians involved in the actual events depicted. The series is described as a "mostly true story, based on a lie," and Gibson is the only real individual portrayed in the show. However, Queensland resident Col Ainscough, whose wife and daughter—also a wellness influencer—both succumbed to cancer, denounced the production in a statement this month. He objected because its characters included a family with a different name whose story appeared to mirror his own. Ainscough stated that the show was "insensitive and clearly motivated by profit." Premier Allan told reporters, "Behind the TV stories, behind the dramatization, are real people who have had their lives devastated by the actions of this individual." Reporter Guilliatt observes that the case remains captivating as one of Australia's most "bizarre and blatant" online scams. "I'd like to believe that it served as a wake-up call for many people," he stated. "I hope it has had an impact on people's tendency to blindly accept advice on serious health matters online."

` tags. `` Warning: The following contains spoilers for Episode 6 of . Despite being terminated from Lumon following his innie's actions at the ORTBO, Irving (his outie self) is seemingly still dedicated to his mission: infiltrating and potentially dismantling Lumon. However, the latest developments suggest that the external world may harbor more sinister figures than Irving initially suspected. Episode 6, entitled “Attila,” shows Irving fulfilling his promise to dine at Burt's (Christopher Walken) home, where he lives with his husband, Fields (John Noble). While Irving initially receives a seemingly warm welcome, the atmosphere soon turns unsettling. The dynamic between Burt and Fields can only be described as disturbingly hostile. This prompts serious questions regarding their association with Lumon and their significance within the broader narrative of Severance. What’s the deal with Fields? While John Noble is known to Lord of the Rings fans for portraying Denethor, the power-hungry Steward of Gondor in The Return of the King, this marks his first appearance in Severance. Or does it? Although Arthur Brooks played Fields in the brief scene from the Season 1 finale where innie Irv showed up at Burt’s house during the OTC, some fans speculate that Noble might have appeared earlier, in the show's second-season opener. That scene intentionally obscured the identity of a sinister-seeming, whistling man who collected surgical tools from the O&D department and transported them via the Exports Hall elevator. The man's appearance seems to align with Noble's portrayal of Fields. Considering the events of the recent dinner party, it's certainly plausible that Fields is colluding with Lumon. Is outie Burt evil? Despite their claims of not being "zealots," Burt and Fields express beliefs regarding the connection between severance and Christianity that seem quite extreme. During a dinner conversation about Burt's decision to undergo severance, Fields explains that they were attending a Lutheran church where the doctrine held that innies are complete individuals with souls that can be judged separately from their outies. Consequently, according to Fields, even though Burt was a "scoundrel" in his younger years, his innie could go to heaven and be with him for eternity, even if his outie "burns." This unsettling conversation transitions into a discussion about how Burt and Fields initially called each other "hon" before switching to "Attila," referencing the historical figure Attila the Hun—a brutal fifth-century warlord known as "the Scourge of God." This term of endearment feels far from affectionate. Furthermore, Attila is infamous for killing his own brother to secure absolute power. In light of recent revelations, this reference to fratricide doesn't seem accidental. Burt states that the nickname change occurred roughly 10 years ago, but Fields insists it was 20 years ago, recalling a moment when Burt's "Lumon partner" overheard them using the nickname while they were having drinks, which startled him. This would imply that Burt has been associated with Lumon for far longer than previously indicated, especially given that the company's first severed office opened only 12 years ago, according to Irving. Could Burt's supposed partner have been none other than Lumon CEO Jame Eagan (Michael Siberry)? Burt quickly deflects further questions about his Lumon timeline, but an agitated and somewhat inebriated Fields unleashes a tirade, revealing his true feelings regarding the relationship between innie Burt and Irving. It becomes apparent that Fields feels betrayed by Burt—and seemingly not for the first time. What does Lumon know about Irving? While Irving is occupied with dinner, Lumon security chief Mr. Drummond (Olafur Darri Ólafsson) is shown entering his house using a key from a collection large enough to suggest he possesses a key to every Lumon employee's residence. He examines Irving's locked trunk, discovering his list of severed employees and their contact information. Burt's name and address seem to particularly catch his attention. The episode concludes with Irv and Burt bidding farewell, hinting at a desire to meet again without Fields present. It's becoming increasingly clear that Burt's involvement with Lumon is more extensive than initially believed. However, given Irving's background, it remains uncertain who is truly manipulating whom. Hopefully, Irving is playing a sophisticated game.

JOHANNESBURG — Following a speech by Russia's leading diplomat at a tense G20 meeting in South Africa on Thursday, U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that he detected no desire for peace from Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Lammy's comments to reporters came after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed senior diplomats in a private session at the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Johannesburg. “I must say that after listening to the Russians and Mr. Lavrov in the chamber this afternoon, I don’t believe there's a genuine desire to achieve peace,” Lammy stated. Lammy noted that Lavrov left the room when it was his turn to speak. The details of Lavrov’s speech have not been disclosed. This two-day G20 gathering follows closely on the heels of significant bilateral discussions between the U.S. and Russia concerning the resolution of the war in Ukraine. These discussions excluded Washington’s European allies and Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump has further complicated the West’s stance by criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and falsely attributing the full-scale invasion to Ukraine. The war is approaching its third anniversary next week. “Currently, we've essentially had discussions about future discussions,” Lammy said. “We are nowhere near a negotiated settlement.” In his own address, which was released by the U.K. Foreign Office, Lammy denounced Russia for what he described as “Tsarist imperialism.” “Mature nations learn from their past colonial errors and wars, and Europeans have learned a great deal over the centuries,” Lammy stated, according to the U.K. Foreign Office transcript. “But I regret to say that Russia appears to have learned nothing.” “I had hoped to hear some empathy for the innocent victims of the aggression and a readiness to pursue a lasting peace. Instead, I heard imperialistic logic disguised as realpolitik, and I urge you all not to be surprised or deceived.” Lammy dismissed Lavrov’s speech as “the Russian gentleman’s tired fabrications.” Tensions at the meeting were further highlighted by the unexplained cancellation of a photo opportunity for the foreign ministers. The United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the European Union have all affirmed their continued support for Ukraine and were expected to reiterate this commitment at the G20 meeting. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently led talks with Lavrov in Saudi Arabia, was notably absent. Rubio boycotted the event due to U.S. tensions with South Africa over certain policies that the Trump administration has deemed anti-American. The U.S. was represented by Dana Brown, its acting ambassador to South Africa. The G20 consists of 19 of the world’s leading economies, the European Union, and the African Union. Other attendees at the meeting in South Africa included EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who reiterated France’s condemnation of Russia in an op-ed published by several media outlets. The Russian Foreign Ministry released details of a bilateral meeting between Lavrov and China’s Wang. According to the ministry, Lavrov stated that Russia's relations with China "have become and remain an increasingly significant factor in stabilizing the international situation and preventing it from sliding into total confrontation." The G20 aims to unite developed and developing countries to promote global cooperation. However, the group often struggles to achieve consensus due to the differing interests of the U.S., Europe, Russia, and China. Cooperation has been further strained by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. South Africa holds the G20’s rotating presidency this year, and President Cyril Ramaphosa stated in his opening speech that the meeting was an opportunity for the G20 "to engage in serious dialogue" against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, war, climate change, pandemics, and energy and food insecurity. “There is a lack of consensus among major powers, including in the G20, on how to respond to these issues,” Ramaphosa noted. Rubio’s decision to boycott the meeting and his intention to also skip the main G20 summit in South Africa in November threaten to further weaken the G20’s effectiveness. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also announced that he would not attend a G20 finance ministers meeting in South Africa next week due to commitments in Washington, a move widely interpreted as another sign of Trump’s disinterest in international collaboration in favor of his “America First” policy. —Imray reported from Cape Town, South Africa. ```

Connor McDavid delivered a painful blow to the American team. The Canadian hockey icon, a three-time NHL MVP who remarkably also secured the NFL playoff MVP last season despite his Edmonton Oilers losing in the Stanley Cup Finals, received a pass and scored past U.S. goalie Connor Hellebuyck. This goal secured a 3-2 overtime win for Canada against the U.S. in the final of the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off, a tournament featuring teams from the U.S., Canada, Finland, and Sweden, created to replace the usual NHL All-Star events. The tournament attracted significant viewership, fueled by the intensifying U.S.-Canada rivalry. The last time the U.S. and Canada clashed in a major final that went to overtime was during the Vancouver Olympics gold medal game, where Sidney Crosby's overtime goal ignited celebrations across Canada. Like Crosby 15 years prior, McDavid demonstrated the ability of Canadian hockey stars to excel in critical moments on prominent stages. The game kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The first period saw both teams scoring; Nathan McKinnon put Canada ahead initially, but Brady Tkachuck of the U.S. equalized with just over three minutes remaining, following a play initiated by Austin Matthews. The U.S. gained momentum in the second period when Jake Sanderson gave them a 2-1 lead. However, Sam Bennett scored to tie the game, leading to a scoreless third period and overtime. The political backdrop of the championship game was evident. Canada has been sensitive to U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion that it might become America's 51st state. During earlier tournament games in Montreal, fans booed the "Star Spangled Banner." The atmosphere in Boston on Thursday night was different, with "Make America Great Again" hats visible in the crowd and fervent "USA! USA!" chants. The previous Saturday's game between the two nations, a round-robin match, saw Team USA win. That game attracted 10.1 million viewers in North America, the highest number outside the Stanley Cup Final since 2014, according to the NHL. Trump has embraced the U.S. team. On Thursday, he stated on Truth Social that he couldn't attend due to prior commitments but wanted to encourage the team to victory against Canada, which he claimed had "FAR LOWER TAXES AND MUCH STRONGER SECURITY" and might soon become the "Fifty First State." He has also referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as "governor," enjoying the chance to provoke him. Trump mentioned he would be watching and welcomed Trudeau to join him. Trump later posted a video showing him calling the U.S. team before the game. He wished them luck, praising their skill and stating it was an honor to speak with them, adding "There’s no pressure whatsoever.” The players in the locker room laughed. U.S. coach Mike Sullivan responded, "I can tell you honestly, every person in here—players, staff, management, coaches—we are all proud Americans and we want to represent the country the best way we can." "Just go out and have a good time," Trump said. "You’re going to win, and we love America, we love you guys. We’ll be watching tonight, bring it home." The U.S. ultimately fell short, giving Canada satisfaction. Trudeau posted on X, "You can’t take our country. And you can’t take our game." However, Trump might find some consolation in the fact that, unlike the U.S. women's soccer team in 2019, which publicly opposed him, this hockey team appeared to welcome his support. A victory would have represented a symbolic "MAGA" world title for Trump and his supporters. Future opportunities exist, with the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan next year offering another potential rematch. Sports fans globally will be watching. The President included. ```

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is revoking deportation safeguards for approximately 500,000 Haitian immigrants, potentially leading to their deportation and the loss of their work permits by August. This decision, announced on Thursday, aligns with the Trump administration's commitment to mass deportations and reducing the scope of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a designation that was significantly expanded under the Biden administration to encompass about 1 million immigrants. The Department of Homeland Security stated in a press release that it is reversing the Biden administration's decision to extend TPS for Haitians. TPS grants legal status in the U.S. but does not offer a pathway to citizenship. Those with TPS rely on the government for renewal of their status. Critics, including Republicans and the Trump administration, argue that TPS renewals have become routine, regardless of conditions in the individual's home country. “The TPS system has been exploited and abused for decades,” Homeland Security said in its announcement. “Haiti, for instance, has had TPS designation since 2010. Data indicates that each extension allowed more Haitian nationals, including those who entered the U.S. illegally, to qualify for legal protection.” Homeland Security reported that approximately 57,000 Haitians were eligible for TPS in 2011, but this number had risen to 520,694 by July of the previous year. “Sending 500,000 people back to a country with such high mortality rates is utterly inhumane,” stated Tessa Petit, a Haitian American and executive director at the Florida Immigrant Coalition, arguing that Haiti meets all necessary criteria for TPS protection. “We hope that in revisiting this decision, they will prioritize humanity over politics.” Farah Larrieux, a 46-year-old Haitian who has been under TPS protection since 2010 after arriving in the U.S. in 2005, believes the decision reflects a disregard for the situation in Haiti. “Nobody is safe in Haiti,” said Larrieux, who owns a communications business in South Florida, home to many Haitians in the U.S. “This disrupts the lives of people who have contributed so much to this country, giving their labor, their lives, and their sacrifices.” The timeline for potential deportations after TPS expiration is unclear. Some individuals may seek alternative forms of protection, and large-scale deportations present logistical difficulties. Jean Negot Bonheur Delva, Haiti’s migration director, stated that only 21 Haitians have been deported under the Trump administration, and they were already scheduled for deportation under Biden. According to Witness at the Border, an advocacy group tracking flight data, there were nine flights to Haiti in 2024. Delva expressed concern about the impact of returning people to a country struggling with violence and homelessness affecting over 1 million people due to gang activity. “It’s very sad that people who left Haiti in search of a better life elsewhere will be returning,” Delva said. “The insecurity and lack of resources will make them miserable.” The U.N. reported over 5,600 deaths in Haiti last year. Many displaced people live in overcrowded, makeshift shelters, including abandoned government buildings, where sexual assault is increasingly common. Gangs control 85% of Haiti’s capital and are expanding their territory. Recent massacres have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. Delva mentioned that the Haitian government has established a commission to aid deportees. “They are children of Haiti. A mother must welcome her children, wherever they come from,” he stated. Congress established TPS in 1990 to prevent deportations to countries experiencing natural disasters or civil unrest, authorizing work permits in increments up to 18 months. Near the end of the Biden administration, TPS protected 1 million immigrants from 17 countries, including Venezuela, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine, and Lebanon. The Trump administration has already begun the process of ending TPS for Venezuelans. Two non-profit organizations filed a lawsuit on Thursday challenging the decision. —Associated Press journalists Evens Sanon in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Gisela Salomon in Miami contributed to this report.