Reports said over a dozen people have died in the eastern United States due to a potentially record-breaking blizzard. The monster snowstorm is expected to affect about 85 million Americans, and possibly cause more than $1 billion in damage.

Get more details about the ‘Snowzilla’ affecting the US.

The 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) kicks off in Cebu City on Sunday, January 24, and police said they are not taking any chances. Security has been beefed up for the event, which will be attended by up to 15,000 delegates. The IEC comes just 10 days after the deadly terror attacks in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Read more about the security preparations for the IEC here.

An isolated aboriginal community in La Loche, Canada is in mourning after a high school student shot dead two brothers and two trainee teachers. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the incident “every parent’s worst nightmare.” Unlike in the US, mass shootings are rare in Canada, where firearms are more regulated.

Here is the full story on the Canada shooting.

Ahead of the first anniversary of the deadly Mamasapano clash on Monday, January 25, Rappler takes a look at what the presidential candidates have said about the incident. The clash and its implications on the peace process are among the significant issues in the May elections.

Read the public pronouncements of the presidential candidates here.

Malabon Mayor Antolin Oreta III is offering a P200,000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the killers of Malabon 2nd District Councilor Merlin “Tiger” Mañalac. The councilor was gunned down in front of his home on Saturday, January 23. Leftist group Partisano-Armadong Operatiba ng Partido Marxista-Leninista ng Pilipinas claimed responsibility for the attack.

Read more about Mañalac’s killing here.

Lila Pilipina, an organization of World War II comfort women, again called on President Benigno Aquino III to hear their plea for justice. They want the President to bring up their plight during the state visit of Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko to the Philippines on January 26 to 30.

Learn more about the plight of Lila Pilipina’s members.

The Department of Transportation and Communications said its consultancy spending under the helm of Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya rose due to an increase in the number of infrastructure deals. Assistant Secretary Sherielysse Bonifacio made the clarification to Rappler, amid allegations that the DOTC overspent to get advice from experts.

Here is the full story on the DOTC’s explanation.

Researchers from the College of Engineering of the University of the Philippines – Diliman found that the design of a typical passenger jeepney is far from ideal. In their study, the researchers said that small leg room and uncomfortable seats, among others, put jeepney drivers’ health at risk. 

Get more details about the study’s findings here.

Some members of the House of Representatives are pushing for the passage of House Bill 6367, which seeks to exempt Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach from paying taxes on her pageant winnings. Wurtzbach, who arrived back home on Saturday, January 23, reportedly has to pay P4.5 million in taxes. The beauty queen is set to receive the Congressional Medal of Distinction on Tuesday, January 26. 

Find out about Malacañang’s reaction to the tax exemption proposal here.

Alaska Aces star Chris Banchero helped Rappler Sports launch its official Twitter account, @rapplersports, with the hashtag #BancheroTakeover trending locally. The Filipino-Italian baller, who turns 27 on Sunday, January 24, answered questions about his PBA opponents, fans, food, and more.

Check out highlights of the #BancheroTakeover.

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