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China launches six days of military drills in 5 maritime areas

China has launched a new 6-day military exercise in five maritime areas in waters near Taiwan, right on the first day after Taiwan’s National Day long weekend. The affected areas include parts of the Yellow sea, the Bohai Sea, the East China Sea and the South China Sea. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense says it is closely monitoring any developments, while condemning China for escalating tensions in the region. Let’s hear more.

News anchor
CCTV
Maritime authorities across multiple regions have issued navigation warnings, announcing that live-fire drills, military training, and other designated operations will be conducted in several maritime areas beginning today.

Wellington Koo
Minister of National Defense
Based on our preliminary assessment, these activities are all taking place along the coast. We will continue to monitor the situation closely. Whether live-fire exercises or military training, these drills create unnecessary anxiety and should be condemned.

China has openly stated that the military drills were intended to “deter Taiwan independence.” Taiwan’s Defense Minister, Wellington Koo, condemned Beijing for heightening regional tensions. That includes numerous incursions by military aircraft over the National Day long weekend. Taiwan detected 21 aircraft incursions on Oct. 9, 21 on Oct. 10 and 4 on Oct. 11. In addition, on Oct. 11, six Chinese military vessels and three official ships were also spotted operating around the Taiwan Strait.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#china #taiwan #crosstrait #eastchinasea #defense

Time：2026-10-12

最新消息 Latest News

Puma Shen campaign motorcade draws over 2,000 vehicles in support

Thousands of supporters gathered across Taipei for Puma Shen’s first campaign motorcade. Shen officially launched his Taipei O’Shen Wave campaign on Sunday. The convoy weaved through Zhongshan and Datong districts. Besides the enthusiastic crowds who greeted him at the starting point in the early morning, many followed on YouBikes and scooters. Official sources claim 2,000 vehicles followed and more than 10,000 supporters showed up. From Dihua Sewage Treatment Plant to Baoan Temple, Shen canvassed a 14km route taking more than 2 hours.

Wearing a striped black and white shirt and a bright orange scarf, Puma Shen kick started his motorcade campaign and sent supporters into frenzy to capture photos of the voyage.

The motorcade was surrounded by supporters waving flags and shouting for Shen. Closely behind were rows and rows of motorcycles and YouBikes that stretched as far as the eye could see. Official statistics reveal over 2,000 vehicles followed and took more than 15 minutes to depart from the starting point.

The motorcade campaign was flooded with supporters. Some held up signs, others waved flags and yet others cheered on Shen.

The O’Shen wave boosted sales for nearby vendors.

- Very good, very good
- Are there more preparations today?
- Yes! Yes! Yes!

Member of public
Supports leadership change
Our Taipei City is very bitter and very boring, it’s been nearly 20 years since Chen Shui-bian was mayor, and resentment has been building for a long time.

As the citizens aired their grievances, it became evident that the public has felt bitter for very long, which is why they want to see a change in leadership. Crowds gathered both on ground and online through the livestream with more than 60,000 viewers.

- Mackay Memorial Hospital
- Hospital cannot use microphone

As the motorcade passed by the Mackay Memorial Hospital, they reminded not to use microphones to avoid disturbing patients. During the motorcade, people held up signs and changed the slogans stating, “Compatriots must unite, unity is powerful,” to, “Taipei must unite, unity is powerful.” Shen felt deeply moved after seeing the signs, however he also observed some citizens making obscene gestures and responded with the following.

- Better than very straight.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
In a democratic society, everyone is entitled to expressing their opinions; I think this lets everyone’s emotions find an outlet. I think it’s for the better. The first time I was at Baoan Temple was when I first started running for election, there were maybe around 1-200 people, but this time there were certainly more, we all felt very moved.

When the motorcade came to a stop, Taipei’s O’Shen wave arrived at Baoan Temple. The crowd swarmed the area spreading out to the surrounding business district. Matching the crowd sizes of election nights, the aerial photos were spectacular. Shen put forward five major policies for Zhongshan and Datong, including a service team to extend life in old houses, companionship for the elderly, and the Yuanshan Citizen Sports Center.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#pumashen #taipeimayor #oceancurrent #oshenwave #dpp

2026-10-12

Chiang Wan-an turns down invitation for second TV debate

A televised debate between the two mayoral candidates for Taipei is in the works, with broadcasters TVBS and SET hosting the event. Six media outlets, including FTV, are hoping to hold a second debate, and have sent invitations to the DPP and KMT candidates. On Monday, DPP candidate Puma Shen agreed to take part. But incumbent KMT Mayor Chiang Wan-an has said he doesn’t have the time for a second showdown, as he has many city policies to direct. Let’s hear from the two.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
I agree to take part in a televised debate for the Taipei mayoral race hosted by Taiwan Television, China Television, Formosa Television, Liberty Times, Mirror, Mnews, and any other willing media outlet.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor (KMT)
In line with precedent, I think one is enough. There are many city policies I have to oversee. We can’t slow down now, or have them be affected.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
There are so many things to be discussed about Taipei’s governance that if we only hold one debate, each issue would only be allotted a couple of seconds. There wouldn’t be any depth.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor (KMT)
Taipei has gone through many elections already. There are plenty of precedents.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
If he is confident in his governance, taking part in more debates would be to his advantage. It follows that if he’s confident about how he’s handled the city, the more debates, the more opportunities to bring up all the good things he’s done to respond to criticism.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor (KMT)
We also hope that the relevant details will be finalized soon, so we can move forward with it.

The six media outlets called on the candidates from both camps to accept the debate invitation and make the event a reality. They say such a dialogue would put citizens at the heart of the discussion, showcasing what democracy is really about.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#democracy #debate #taipei #蔣萬安 #沈伯洋

2026-10-12

Taiwan invites neighbors to partake in Vehicle Extrication Challenge

Car accidents can be gruesome and stressful to handle, making rescue teams very important. Taiwan hosted this year’s International Vehicle Extrication Challenge, inviting Japan, Philippines, and other countries to partake in friendly competition. The event serves as an excellent platform for exchanging practical experience and recreating rescue scenarios under time pressure.

A team from Osaka carried out an emergency rescue operation, racing against the clock. They smashed windows and pulled out trapped passengers from the overturned vehicle.

Taipei’s rescue team also faced many challenges. One car overturned to the left, another on the right. They had to control the vehicles while providing first aid to the seriously injured as quickly as possible.

It takes a lot of intense, dedicated training to remain calm under pressure, especially for first responders. To put all the training to the test, Taiwan hosted the 2026 International Vehicle Extrication Challenge, which kicked off in Nantou.

Hsiao Ya-wen
Taiwan Disaster Medical Development Association
The primary principles of first aid are: first, to assess whether there are any sources of heavy bleeding, second to check if they have any respiratory problems, or any blood pressure or circulatory problems.

Tsai Chung-ling
Competing Instructor
Amongst commanders, rescue personnel, and paramedics, all three must share the same goal: to rescue the victims in a reasonable, comfortable, and stable way.

Disasters and accidents have no borders, and technological advancements require cross-border learning exchange!

Hsiao Huan-chang
Fire Department Chief
To help Taiwan’s fire and rescue officers improve procedures, we conduct exchanges and international cooperation with Japan and the Philippines.

Beyond showcasing recent achievements in technique and equipment, Taiwan hopes to improve relations and mutual trust with allies. Through initiatives such as this one, Taiwan continues to play an important role in the region and improves regional rescue capabilities.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#vehicleextrication #caraccident #simulation #firstresponders #nantou

2026-10-12

Huge pink cargo and joss paper burner turn heads amid traffic

A scooter rider in Kaohsiung is giving Santa Claus a run for his money. The motorist was spotted wobbling through traffic, carrying a gigantic pile of bright pink bags that swayed dangerously from side to side. The towering cargo turned heads and impressed onlookers, but police didn’t find it amusing, and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the rider. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Would keep some distance
I would stay away from the scooter. I think doing things like that ultimately is a nuisance to everyone else. If a bag falls off, it could cause an accident and the rider wouldn’t even know.

Member of public
Not impressed
It’s dangerous and it blocks traffic. It’s terrible.

Hsu Cheng-yi
Police officer
Scooters transporting goods must comply with relevant regulations. Violations are punishable with a fine of NT$300 to NT$600 under Article 31, Paragraph 5 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act.

But sightings of overloaded scooters are not unique to Kaohsiung. Over in Tainan, a pair of road users was caught carrying a massive joss paper furnace through traffic. The feat was accomplished thanks to the passenger sitting backwards while straddling the furnace between his legs. The scooter swayed from side to side on the road, making everyone else fear for the riders, and for themselves. After all, one moment of imbalance could end up with everyone on the ground.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#scooter #santa #grinch #stunt #presents

2026-10-12

Selfless Italian priest wins prestigious Taiwan award for philanthropy

Selfless Italian priest Father Giuseppe Didone has spent over 60 years in Taiwan caring for vulnerable people. This includes over a thousand children with severe physical or intellectual disabilities. Now he’s received one of Taiwan’s most prestigious philanthropic awards – the Y.L. Lin Taiwan Devotion Award. True to form, he doesn’t plan to spend any of the NT$30 million award money on himself. Let’s find out more.

At the age of 86, Father Giuseppe Didone walks slowly onto the stage to accept an honorary award. Despite his advanced age, he remains full of vitality whenever he speaks of his philanthropic mission; his words radiate a passionate dedication to serving the vulnerable.

Father Giuseppe Didone
Recipient of Y.L. Lin Taiwan Devotion Award
It has been over 40 years now that we have been caring for these children; their parents have always been grateful to us—our Catholic ministry—so I am very happy today.

After arriving in Taiwan in 1965, Father Didone, an Italian, has dedicated himself to caring for the disadvantaged in Penghu and Yilan. In 1987, he transformed an abandoned convent in Dayin Village, Sanxing Township, into the St. Camillus Center for Intellectual Disability, providing long-term shelter and care for over a thousand children with severe physical and intellectual disabilities. Sixteen years ago, he extended his compassionate mission to include long-term care and hospice services. This selfless dedication, spanning more than half a century, has honored him with the Y.L. Lin Taiwan Devotion Award this year. As for the NT$30 million prize money, Father Didone humorously remarked that it certainly wouldn’t be going into his own pockets.

Father Giuseppe Didone
Recipient of Y.L. Lin Taiwan Devotion Award
Not a single cent of this money will go into my own pockets; instead, it is specifically intended to support the St. Camillus Center for Intellectual Disability in Luodong. We are currently setting up a small workshop—a project costing tens of millions—and I am deeply grateful to this foundation for providing us with this opportunity.

Chan I-i
Selection committee member
Identifying everyone in the region who is in need—ensuring they can find the resources they require right here—and leading us to see the true value of it all: I believe that is the most meaningful thing.

Father Didone has dedicated over sixty years of service to Taiwan and remains deeply rooted in the local community through his selfless spirit. He serves as a source of the warmest and most steadfast support for remote areas and vulnerable populations.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Giuseppedidone #Taiwancharities #Yllintaiwandevotionaward #Taiwanexpats #Italianexpats #intellectualdisabilities #Taiwanphilanthropy

2026-10-12

Lee Hao-yu returns to Taiwan after stellar baseball season in the US

As the youngest Taiwanese player to hit a homerun in Major League Baseball, Lee Hao-yu is back in town to talk about his adventures. The 23 year-old player made his debut in April this year and delivered an incredible performance all season, with 87 hits and 10 home runs, he is making history by breaking many Taiwanese records. Today he attended a press conference with his family present and shared his journey.

Taiwanese professional baseball player, Lee Hao-yu returned to Taiwan during offseason, and immediately attended a press conference to talk about his journey.

Lee Hao-yu
MLB Detroit Tigers player
I got hurt almost immediately after I started playing. After recovering and returning, I did not expect to be called up this early, until I hit my first home run. This year’s been full of surprises.

Earlier this year, Lee made his MLB debut and has already set Taiwanese single-season MLB records for 114 games played, 87 hits, and 10 home runs, with a batting average of 0.263. This year Lee has made history as the youngest Taiwanese player to hit a homerun in the MLB, also fulfilling a long-time dream of his.

Lee Hao-yu
MLB Detroit Tigers player
The first time I watched MLB was the Detroit Tigers, I thought that field was beautiful. I told the person next to me, “One day I’ll play here.” 9 years later, I am really playing baseball on that very field.

Since it was first time playing in the major leagues, Lee revealed that he was driving home to Detroit when he accidentally took a wrong turn and ended up in Canada, where he was taken into customs interrogation.

Lee Hao-yu
MLB Detroit Tigers player
The customs officer searched up my name and said, “Oh, you really are here to play baseball,” and I said, “Why would I lie?” He said, “Wow, not bad. You’ve had two home runs.” I said, “Nope, I’ve had three.”

Given his incredible performance, his family is incredibly proud. Lee’s mother joked about picking up her son at the airport on social media saying, “I’ve come to pick up my gangster son.” Baseball fans were even curious about who runs the Detroit Tigers threads account seeing as the posts have a distinct Taiwanese-style.

Lee Hao-yu
MLB Detroit Tigers player
Can I reveal this? It wouldn’t be fun if I did, it’s better to keep everyone guessing.

Whatever the mystery is, Lee’s baseball career is off to an incredible start. As the rookie continues to grow in the Major Leagues, he will always be supported by Taiwan and its baseball fans.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#detroittigers #leehaoyu #mlb #baseball #taiwanesebaseball

2026-10-12

120,000 fans flock to Bigbang’s three concerts in Taipei

K-pop supergroup Bigbang is back in Taiwan reunited for the first time in 11 years, drawing 120,000 fans to Taipei Dome for three nights of explosive performances! The legendary group’s Taiwan visit has been making headlines both on and off stage. From beef noodles and pineapple cakes gifted by Jay Chou to a social media post featuring Taiwan’s flag that mysteriously disappeared.

Legendary K-pop boy band Bigbang is back with a vengeance, reuniting for the first time in 11 years. The supergroup tore up the stage at Taipei Dome over the past three days, with 120,000 VIPs making the pilgrimage to see their idols. For the three performers, it wasn’t just about singing and dancing on stage. A visit to Taiwan wouldn’t be complete without food.

Taeyang
Bigbang member
Last night, I had beef noodles, and also I ate pineapple cakes. Pineapple cakes that Jay Chou gave me. It was really delicious. Thank you bro!

Taeyang’s Taiwan trip featured beef noodles, and even pineapple cakes gifted by none other than the king of Mandopop.

A photo reveals who delivered the pineapple cakes to Bigbang, actor and entertainer Ken Lin! The celeb said he was following orders from Jay Chou’s wife, Hannah Quinlivan, to personally deliver the treats to the K-pop idols. But just as the concert wrapped up, a story on G-Dragon’s Instagram stirred up controversy.

G-Dragon shared a photo of the three Bigbang members riding a backstage cart, captioned “I LOVE YOU VIP.” The heart in the middle featured Taiwan’s national flag, delighting and surprising their fans. But the story didn’t stay up for long, and was quickly taken down. Fans were left wondering whether it was deleted out of concern over crossing politically sensitive lines.

And it didn’t just stop there. A back-up dancer in Bigbang’s crew, known as the Bangers, celebrated the premier performance in Taiwan with a post on Instagram, featuring the Taiwanese flag emoji. But the caption was quickly changed to say “Taipei.”

G-Dragon
Bigbang member
- I would like to thank everyone.
I feel so grateful.
I hope we can come back here. OK?
- Yes!
- Would you like that?
- Yes!

On the final night of the concert series in Taipei, G-Dragon thanked fans in Mandarin. But while he expressed his love for fans on stage, the repeated disappearance of Taiwan flags offstage left fans with mixed emotions.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#bigbang #kpop #gd #vip #taiwan

2026-10-12

Speeding biker tries covering license plate with foot to avoid ticket

Think you can avoid getting caught by a speed camera by covering your license plate? Think again! In Miaoli’s Zhunan Township, a scooter rider who was going 105kph in a 60kph zone tried hooking his foot over his plate to avoid getting caught by the camera. But police tracked him down anyway from security cameras, identifying him by his helmet and clothing.

In this ridiculous photo, a scooter driver holds tight to the handlebars while leaning forward. If you look further down, you can see his left foot is hooked like a crab. But he’s not trying to show off. He’s trying to avoid a speeding ticket.

The photo was taken on a section of Gongyi Road in Miaoli’s Zhunan Township. It’s a busy roadway with a speed limit of 60kph, but the driver was going 105. Seeing a speed camera up ahead, he came up with the wild idea to block the plate with his foot to avoid the ticket.

- What a punk.
- Would a sensible rider do that?
- No. No way. Definitely not in the morning.

But law enforcement was on it. The driver thought he was being clever, but experienced police officers are no pushovers. They checked security cameras along his route and identified him by his helmet and clothing.

Lin Hung-ming
Miaoli traffic brigade deputy captain
He not only ignored the 60kph speed limit, going far over at 105kph, but acted recklessly by using his foot to cover his plate when passing a speed camera.

You can cover your plate like that for a while, but you’ll eventually get tired and give the police a chance to catch you! Since he was going well above the speed limit and intentionally tried to obscure his plate, he will be fined between NT$6,000 and NT$36,000 and faces a six-month suspension of his vehicle registration.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#trafficsafety #speeding #oddity #police #Miaoli #licenseplate #trafficticket

2026-10-12

Worshippers flock to Chiayi as Baishatun Mazu attends anniversary

Thousands of worshippers flocked to Chiayi as the famous pink supercar of the goddess Mazu rolled into town! The iconic Baishatun Mazu turned the streets into a sea of devotees to celebrate the Dafuxing Temple’s 260th anniversary. Some worshippers knelt on the ground to receive the goddess’s blessings as her sedan passed over them. And the crowds aren’t just coming out of faith; they’re also here for the festivities. Locals are pulling out all the stops, handing out free food to welcome the masses.

The Baishatun Mazu arrives in her famous pink supercar, trailed by thousands of worshippers. The streets of Chiayi City were packed to the brim.

People took advantage of the opportunity to get blessings from the goddess, crouching on the ground while her palanquin passed over them.

- I’ve been following her for 10 years now. I was so excited I cried.

Worshipper
Visiting Chiayi for Mazu
I came with a group of friends. We did the Baishatun pilgrimage together. We’re from all over, Changhua, the North, Caotun in Nantou…

Believers from all over Taiwan flocked to Chiayi. Locals set up stands to hand out freebies for the worshippers, turning the city into a bustling festival ground.

- We ran out of vermicelli and cold noodles.
- They’re all gone?
- Yes, we only have fried noodles now.

- I’ve been queuing since before daybreak.
- We came at around 2. We’ve got corn and taiyaki.

The occasion for Mazu’s visit is the 360th anniversary of Chiayi’s Dafuxing Temple. She arrived on Friday to bless the city with her presence for two days.

Huang Min-hui
Chiayi Mayor
It’s a huge religious event. Everyone is here. Chiayi is really packed with people.

Tseng Tung-ben
Dafuxing Temple
We’re thrilled to be celebrating 360 years since our temple’s foundation. We invited the Baishatun Mazu to visit us and offer us her blessings in this special occasion.

Hung Wen-hua
Baishatun Mazu Temple
Wealth and riches for everyone, and of course, peace and protection for everyone.

The Baishatun Mazu will stay at Dafuxing Temple on Oct. 9 and 10, with song and dance performances to be held in the temple square in the evenings. The temple encourages everyone to join the festivities during this long weekend.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#temple #mazu #blessed #supercar #pink

2026-10-09

Falangaw Tribe blesses site of National Day fireworks show

Taitung is hosting the National Day fireworks display for the first time in nine years. The pyrotechnic extravaganza will take place on Saturday night, along the Taitung International Landmark on the Seashore park and along the Beinan River.

The launch sites lie within the traditional territory of the Amis Falangaw Tribe, and include an important location where the annual ocean worship ceremony is held. Ahead of the fireworks show, tribal elders gathered at the site on Friday for a blessing ritual. They set out offerings and sang traditional songs to pay tribute to their ancestors. As part of the ceremony, they also pounded millet grains to create a representation of the sun and the moon, to ensure the display goes ahead without a hitch. Taitung Commissioner Yao Ching-ling joined the ceremony to pray for success, and extended an invitation for everyone in Taiwan to visit Taitung and celebrate National Day together.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#taitung #fireworks #display #nationalday #pyrotechnics

2026-10-09

Military police share secret behind perfect Presidential Office flag

Have you ever noticed that the national flag on top of the Presidential Office’s 11-story tower always seems to be flying perfectly, no matter how harsh the wind or rain? The Military Police’s 211th Battalion is responsible for this invisible task. They swap the battered flag out every month, threading wires through the fabric by hand to secure it. It seems easy, but it requires a team of four or five people working together to pull it off.

The Presidential Office Building stands proud along Chongqing South Road, the national flag fluttering elegantly under blue skies.

Lin Yen-chun
FTV reporter
Looking up behind me, you can see the national flag flying 11 stories high on top of the Presidential Office tower. It looks to be fluttering easily in the breeze. But what’s the secret to keeping it that way?

Inside the tower—an area off-limits to the public—officers with the Military Police’s 211th Battalion assemble once a month to change the flag. To keep it from ripping or tangling in high winds, they forego the standard ropes in favor of more sturdy wires along the edges.

Wang Kun-huang
Battalion sergeant
After some testing, we found that if the wire is too thick, the holes it leaves in the fabric are too large. When the winds are strong, it actually wears out the flag faster. If they’re too light, they rust easily in the wind and rain, causing them to break.

To seamlessly fuse together the flag and wire, they must use pliers to twist them tightly. They must also be flush with the fabric so that when a flag bearer runs a gloved hand over the joint, it won’t catch on the fabric. It may seem simple, but it takes four to five officers all working in tandem.

Huang Wei-ting
Battalion flag bearer
The hardest part is threading the wire through the halyard, because the rope is incredibly stiff. There’s no need for us to rush. Our only priority is making sure that every wire is affixed well.

It’s not just the officers’ skill that ensures the flag flies perfectly. The four corners are also extra thick and reinforced with double stitching to prevent tearing. For this elite group of officers, even a single tear is unacceptable. They take pride in ensuring that the nation’s greatest symbol of honor flies high and proud.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#nationalflag #PresidentialOffice #militarypolice #flagbearer #honor

2026-10-09

Local in shock after local chief’s husband eats moldy cake in one bite

A moldy cake gave way to a bizarre shouting match at a borough warden’s office in Hsinchu. It all started after the local borough warden handed out Double Ninth cash gifts for elders, alongside campaign materials for a KMT candidate and a delectable slice of traditional sponge cake. The sweet gesture seemed nice, but it turns out that the cake had black dots of what appeared to be mold all over the surface. A concerned local took the cake back to the warden’s office, only for her husband to swallow it up in one go and insisting it was safe to eat. But locals wonder whether he was actually just trying to destroy the evidence. Let’s watch how it went down.

- It’s moldy.
- They were baked last night.
- Regardless, it’s moldy.
It doesn’t matter when it was made.
- Why did you eat it?
What was that for!
Why would you eat it!
What’s the goal here?

Niece
Saw moldy cake
I took it out, and saw it was moldy. I told my aunt, “You can’t eat this.” Then, everyone told me to fetch the borough warden, since she gave it out. When I did, her husband straight-up took a bite of the cake claiming it wasn’t moldy, and that it was fine to eat. He ate it up in one go! I was flabbergasted! He gulped it down, and then told me to go get the cake tested. So you’re telling me you gave out 10 or 20 cake pieces and only mine was moldy? What about food safety and hygiene? The cake didn’t bear a manufacturing date or an expiry date. It wasn’t vacuum packed. Did they expect us to just eat food waste?

The incident happened in Xinpu in Hsinchu County. Xinpu’s mayor distributed the Double Ninth Festival cash gifts through local borough wardens, one of which decided to sweeten the deal with traditional sponge cake she’d received from a friend. Unfortunately, the treat came with a side of mold. The warden, Wu Kuei-hsiang, has kept quiet, reportedly insisting in private that the suspicious spots were just ink stains. Her husband’s one-bite showdown ultimately stole the show, leaving residents scratching their heads over what exactly they just witnessed.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#cake #moldy #gift #taiwan #bizarre

2026-10-09

Doctors urge immediate medical care for ruptured cerebral aneurysms

A Hong Kong tourist who visited Taiwan two years ago suddenly experienced severe headaches and neck pain, almost fainting. After being rushed to the hospital, it was found she had suffered a ruptured cerebral aneurysm combined with a stroke. Doctors are highlighting this condition. Although only 3 out of 100 people may experience this, there is a relatively high mortality rate and only one third who survive are able to live independently afterwards. They are urging people with these symptoms to get medical attention as soon as possible. Let’s find out more:

Ms. Sze, from Hong Kong, was visiting Jiufen two years ago when she suddenly experienced severe headaches and neck pain, almost fainting. She initially thought it was heatstroke, but after being taken to the hospital, it was discovered that she had suffered a ruptured cerebral aneurysm combined with a stroke.

Ms. Sze’s family member
Describing the incident
She suddenly said she had severe neck pain, then she couldn’t move her lower body, and she felt very cold and kept vomiting. She said she needed to call an ambulance. We waited for about 30 minutes before the ambulance finally arrived. At that time, every minute felt like an eternity, and we were very scared.

Fortunately, through a minimally invasive clipping procedure, the doctor avoided having to remove a large area of the skull. With just a 2 to 3-centimeter incision, a metal clip was used to secure the cerebral aneurysm and prevent further bleeding.

Yan Jiun-lin
Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
Out of 100 people, only about 3 have aneurysms. Most people don’t have aneurysms and they typically give us no trouble. But if they rupture accidentally, it can cause serious brain hemorrhage. That’s why we have to pay so much attention to this disease. It’s because once it ruptures, there is an extremely high mortality rate of 15% to 20%. Only a small percentage of those who survive are able to live independently.

After a ruptured cerebral aneurysm, only one-third of patients are able to live independently. Doctors urge that if a family member has a cerebral aneurysm, it is best to quit smoking and drinking, maintain a regular lifestyle, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#cerebralaneurysims #strokes #neckpain #headaches #Taiwanhealth

2026-10-09

37 athletes to represent Taiwan at Dakar Youth Olympic Games

The 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics kick off on Oct. 31 in Senegal, marking the first time the Games will be held in Africa. Taiwan is sending 37 athletes to compete in 17 sports, with Sports Minister Lee Yang urging the young competitors to use sports to connect with the world. At Thursday’s flag presentation ceremony, he also reminded the team to put their health and safety first.

Lee Yang
Sports Minister
Something that makes this trip special is that they’re going to Africa! Though everyone got a lot of vaccines, we hope everyone will take care of their health, and that the delegation and all the staff will be safe and healthy. This trip to Africa is a great opportunity to learn about other countries and cultures, to meet athletes from other countries and learn from each other.

Chen Mei-yen
Dakar Youth Olympics Delegation Head
The Youth Olympics are all about exchanges: cultural exchanges, educational exchanges, and making friends. I’m looking forward to bringing our young athletes and coaches together for this opportunity to use sports as a form of diplomacy and as a way to foster international exchange.

The Youth Olympics are open to athletes under the age of 17. Taiwan is sending 37 competitors to battle it out across 17 sports, including archery, athletics, badminton, breaking and 3x3 basketball. At Thursday’s flag presentation ceremony, baseball standout Chang Wen-ting and rising track star Wang Cheng-yu accepted the team flag and NT$200,000 in bonuses for the delegation, symbolizing the athletes’ unity, determination and readiness to represent Taiwan on the world stage.

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#dakar #youtholympics #senegal #taiwan #sports

2026-10-09

Tzuyu surprises Singapore F1 fans at Williams Racing with new music

Tzuyu, Taiwanese member of K-pop girl group TWICE, continues to expand her global presence. Yesterday, she was pictured at the Williams Paddock ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. Thousands of fans flocked to support her as she was invited to sing the theme song for the team’s collaboration with popular anime, DanDaDan, which she revealed would be released next year.

Tzuyu
Member of TWICE
Hello to all my dear fans, to everyone. This is Tzuyu, I am so excited and so happy to be here with you.

TWICE’s Taiwanese member, Tzuyu addressed her fans in English at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix Williams fanzone. Thousands of fans packed the venue to catch a glimpse of their idol.

Tzuyu
Member of TWICE
This place is so cool and so amazing. And I am so happy to see my fans, and yes, for my fans you have a special place in my heart.

Tzuyu maintained a calm stage presence and revealed that she will release an official theme song for the “Speed Meets Supernatural,” collaboration between Williams Racing and the popular anime “DanDaDan.”

Tzuyu
Member of TWICE
The song is coming out early next year and it will premiere soon, but we really want to surprise you so I can’t say too much. But, I believe you will love this song. So please stay tuned.

Williams F1 official account released behind-the-scenes footage of the event showing Tzuyu, dressed in all black, collaborating with drivers, Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz. Together they sculpted a character from DanDaDan, Turbo Granny, out of clay. Tzuyu’s surprising collaborations from K-pop to F1 racing and anime, demonstrate her popularity and continuously expand her global reach!

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#williamsracing #tzuyu #twice #kpop #dandadan #sainz #albon #atlassian

2026-10-09

Retired cop grows durian from family’s betel nut plantation

Durian, known for its pungent aroma, has typically been imported into Taiwan from Southeast Asia. But one retired police officer decided to take a crack at growing the King of the Fruits after returning to his hometown. He chopped down the betel nut trees on his family’s Pingtung farm and planted durian instead. Over the first three years he overcame many technical challenges and natural disasters to welcome his first harvest. Now, his farm boasts a stable output.

The food that has these tasters unable to contain themselves is durian, the famously aromatic King of the Fruits.

At this orchard tucked away in Pingtung’s Linluo Township, fruit hangs from row after row of durian trees. Each one is tied to the branch to keep it from falling and smashing on the ground once it ripens. The owner is Hsu Chun-ming, a retired police officer.

Hsu Chun-ming
Durian farmer
From when I was a child to when I returned home, we’ve always grown betel nut here. After retiring I wanted to make a change, so I thought about it for a while. I wanted to find something more challenging that also has high economic value.

Hsu saw that betel nut prices were steadily declining and was no longer viable as a cash crop, but struggled for a long time over what to grow instead. It was a casual suggestion from his durian-loving wife that eventually led him to try out growing this notoriously challenging fruit.

Hsu’s wife
Durian farmer
He could only figure it out through trial and error, since he couldn’t find a set method. The failure rate for the first batch was about 90% in terms of survival. But the second round grew very well.

Hsu Chun-ming
Durian farmer
It’s been just over five years since I started growing durian. Each tree yields about 10 fruits. Based on average market prices currently, the return is about 10 times that of betel nut.

Overcoming climate and technical challenges, Hsu’s orchard now boasts 88 trees with premium varieties including Musang King, black thorn, and wild durian. With their excellent quality and rich flavor, Hsu’s durian has become the pride of Linluo.

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#Pingtung #durian #farming #fruit #betelnut #familyfarm #agriculture #kingoffruits

2026-10-09

Outrage after Shoushan Zoo visitor hits macaque with umbrella

A group visiting Shoushan Zoo in Kaohsiung recently got into trouble for provoking macaques resting by the side of the path. One man swung his bag toward an animal, as another used his umbrella to whack it in the head. Footage of the incident generated heated condemnation online, slamming the visitors as setting a terrible example for the children with them. The Kaohsiung Animal Protection Office also mentioned that such behavior is against the law.

A group approaches some macaques ambling down the same path. A man chases after one, pretending he’s about to kick so that it runs away. But that wasn’t the worst of it.

One man swings his bag in the direction of a macaque to provoke it, while another strikes it hard on the head with his umbrella, causing it to leap aside in fear.

Member of public
Other zoo patron
You shouldn’t hit them. If you hit them, they might get angrier and more likely to attack people.

This incident happened at Shoushan Zoo in Kaohsiung. The animals clearly weren’t showing aggression toward the group, but they harassed them anyway. Footage of the encounter drew backlash online.

Member of public
Animal lover
It sets a terrible example. Their kids were right there. We should be kind to animals.

Member of public
Zoo patron
You should keep your distance and avoid interacting with them, because they sometimes attack regular visitors.

Visiting a zoo to see animals while treating the wild animals there with such hostility is unacceptable. An expert also noted that hitting a macaque with an umbrella is likely against the law.

Lin Mei-yin
Taiwan Macaque Coexistence Promotion Association
The macaque in the video wasn’t trying to grab anything or attack, but the visitor used his umbrella to strike it. This potentially constitutes animal abuse, as regulated under the Wildlife Conservation Act.

Regardless of whether he was trying to protect the children near him or not, such misconduct sets the worst kind of example for the next generation.

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#animalabuse #ShoushanZoo #macaque #parenting #animalwelfare

2026-10-09

Daxien the Illusionist enthusiastically received at Hualien kindergarten

Riding on the high of his fame from the viral routine “3 Gods Assembly,” Tsou Ping-hsun, who goes by the stage name Daxien the Illusionist, visited a kindergarten in Hualien to give the students there a rare close-up look at his magic. During the show, his first public charity event in the county, laughter echoed across the venue as students and their parents sat transfixed. Afterward, they said it was well worth the trip.

A red bouquet of flowers turns yellow in the blink of an eye, drawing gasps from an audience transfixed by the masterful display of magic. The magician is Tsou Ping-hsun, or Daxien the Illusionist. It was his first time giving a public charity performance in Hualien.

- He did a trick with some flowers!

- What trick did you find most impressive?
- The beer one.
- Why?
- Because there were so many!

Tsou performed at this kindergarten in Hualien City at the invitation of his magician friend, Huang Hsin-kai. Apart from his signature “3 Gods Assembly” routine, which he’s performed abroad and has been viewed millions of times online, he specifically tailored his tricks and routine to suit the young audience.

Tsou Ping-hsun
Illusionist
There was an earthquake here last year. Many of the young people here likely still have some lingering trauma from it. So I wanted to see if magic could help relieve everyone’s stress.

Wei Chia-yen
Hualien Mayor (KMT)
I also hope a performance like this can ease the kids’ minds and plant seeds of joy so they can grow up happy and carefree.

Despite the chosen audience for his show, Tsou, who officially announced his marriage earlier this year, said he and his wife agreed not to have kids, so that he could focus on his magic career and charity work.

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#magic #illusionist #DaxientheIllusionist #Hualien #charity #viral #Hualienearthquake #performance

2026-10-09

NT$10,000 cash handouts could be distributed before LNY 2027

The Executive has finalized its plans for a universal cash handout of NT$10,000 next year. The money could hit bank accounts as early as Jan. 26, so long as the Legislative Yuan passes the general budget on Jan. 5. That means the handouts could come just in time for the Lunar New Year, and some foreigners are included. Recently, some opposition lawmakers had suggested doubling the handouts to NT$20,000. Here’s the response from the Ministry of Finance.

Juan Ching-hwa
Deputy Finance Minister
If we double the handouts to NT$20,000, the budget would exceed NT$470 billion and require borrowing, which would impact financial stability.

Michelle Lee
Executive Yuan Spokesperson
We also adhere to three principles including not crowding out other policies and not accruing substantial debt. We hope that the government and the opposition can work together to improve the people’s well-being.

Cho Jung-tai
Premier
The estimate from the Ministry of Finance is based on the general budget clearing its third reading by Jan. 5 next year, and be promulgated by the president before Jan. 20. Since this is everyone’s money, if there is a tax surplus, it’s best to distribute it back to everyone, especially ahead of the Lunar New Year.

Amid explosive growth in the AI industry, and strong exports, Taiwan’s GDP is expected to grow by 11% this year. Eligibility will be the same as previous handouts, and not just limited to Taiwan nationals with household registration in Taiwan. Foreign spouses with ARCs and foreign nationals with APRCs will also be able to get the cash. Whether the money will actually be handed out before the Lunar New Year now depends fully on how speedily the legislature approves the budget.

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#cash #handout #aprc #arc #taiwan

2026-10-08