#ThewRap: Things you need to know, January 3, 2018

Hello Rappler readers,

Agaton strengthened into a tropical storm on Wednesday morning, January 3, shortly before its exit from the Philippine Area of Responsibility. In Bohol, Governor Edgar Chatto said they achieved their zero casualty target thanks to preemptive evacuation.

The Philippine population, meanwhile, is expected to exceed 107 million by the end of 2018.

Overseas, US President Donald Trump fires back at North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, saying America has a “much bigger” nuclear button.

Below are the big stories you shouldn’t miss.

Agaton intensifies into tropical storm ahead of exit

Agaton became a tropical storm shortly before it left the Philippine Area of Responsibility. It was given the international name Bolaven.

Bohol achieves zero casualty during Agaton

Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto said the province “is not very badly affected” by Agaton. They achieved their zero casualty target because of preemptive evacuation.

Philippine population seen to top 107 million by end-2018

The Commission on Population projected that around 4,965 Filipinos will be added per day in 2018. That would mean a total population of 107,190,081 by December 31 this year.

PH gov’t urged to probe scam targeting OFWs

Labor advocate Susan Ople called on the Philippine government to investigate an alleged scam targeting overseas Filipino workers. Under the scam, there’s supposedly a “$10 online registration fee for every Middle East-bound OFW applicant.”

Trump to Kim: U.S. has ‘bigger’ nuke button

US President Donald Trump, in a tweet, said Washington has a “much bigger and more powerful” nuclear button than Pyongyang. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un earlier warned in his New Year address that he has a “nuclear button” on his table.

Ayala Land takes majority control of Malaysian firm

Ayala Land is taking majority control of Malaysian development and construction company MCT Berhad. It will buy an additional 17.24% stake in the firm, bringing its shares to 50.19%.

Aldin Ayo confirms he’s no longer La Salle coach

Aldin Ayo broke his silence, confirming he is no longer the head coach of the De La Salle Green Archers. He tweeted: “We have different views in handling the team. I’ve always done what is necessary.”