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TPP and KMT pass bill to exempt more seniors from NHI premiums

With just weeks to the local elections, the KMT and TPP have passed a bill to exempt senior citizens from paying health insurance premiums. When it enters effect, people aged 65 and older whose income tax rate is below 20% will no longer have to pay NHI premiums. That will come at the cost of NT$40 billion a year for the government. The move immediately drew backlash from seven major medical and healthcare associations, and the health minister. Let’s hear more.

Shih Chung-liang
Minister of Health and Welfare
Elections last just a moment. But the National Health Insurance is something the people of Taiwan rely on. The system’s principle that everyone pays according to their financial means is no more. So what now? Are lawmakers going to add even more slipshod clauses to the NHI system?

Hung Tzu-jen
Taiwan College of Healthcare Executive
It is extremely regrettable, and even infuriating to a point. The government already has several policies to exempt seniors aged 65, low-income households and other groups. But this only benefits people who aren’t at a financial disadvantage.

Wu Ming-yen
NHCA
If no money is coming in, someone else has to pay for it. I urge young people to call up the legislators who voted for this bill, and tell them about your opposition to it. Your insurance premiums could increase in the future.

The Mini Ministry of Health and Welfare has voiced concerned about the financial impact of the bill. The KMT and TPP claim the bill excludes wealthier seniors, the income tax rate threshold of below 20% translates to anyone with annual income of up to NT$1.6 million. That is about 83% of senior citizens. If the additional costs is passed down, people aged 15 to 64 could face an extra NT$3,000 or more in annual expenses. If they are covered by tax revenue instead, each tax-paying household would have to shoulder an additional NT$8,000 or more per year.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#premiums #health #costs #kmt #tpp

Time：2026-10-16

最新消息 Latest News

Chiang and Shen buckle down in preparation for first debate

The much-awaited mayoral debate between Chiang Wan-an and Puma Shen will be held on the 31 of this month at noon. Eight media outlets including FTV News issued a joint statement inviting Puma Shen and Chiang Wan-an to participate in a second debate. Chiang had previously hinted at the possibility of a second debate, but he now states things are up in the air. Regarding the debate, Shen emphasized he is not adjusting his schedule while being mindful to peak more concisely.

Reporters noticed that Puma Shen had taped two bright strips of kinesiology tape to relieve soreness and fatigue from all this campaigning. He continues to diligently prepare for the highly-anticipated Taipei mayoral debate which will take place on the 31 of this month at noon. But are the candidates ready for the big day?

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
Because sometimes when I speak, I speak for long, but during debates there will be gaps like, 2 minutes or 3 minutes. So I’m practicing to make my sentences shorter, otherwise in the end with fixed speaking times there might be no opportunity to finish speaking which I think is quite important.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
I intend to go all out, and prepare well.

Both candidates are neck-deep in preparation for the televised debate. However, eight media outlets including FTV have also submitted letters of intent to both sides hoping for a second or even third debate.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
We will hold for more invitations from organizers and media before coordinating further. There are many ways to schedule, I think all of this will need to be coordinated. Whether or not there will be a second debate, I am open to it.

Rosalia Wu
Puma Shen Campaign Manager
Puma Shen signed this agreement immediately. Does that mean Mayor Chiang has already agreed, as Lo Chih-chiang said, he also signed? Does this mean that other media outlets are authorized to hold the debate? Every media outlet has equal rights.

Taipei local
Doubtful of Chiang Wan-an
Of course, the more debates a person participates in, the more they can showcase their competence. Chiang Wan-an gives the impression of being incompetent and ignorant, like a fool reading off a script. But after the debates, the truth will be clearer.

Taipei local
Supports more debates
Debates will allow us, the public, to have a better idea of the bigger picture. I think two debates are OK.

Taipei local
Prefers one debate
Let the public test how witty the candidates are. One time is enough, it will be brilliant.

Locals continue to eagerly wait for the 31 of October to watch the debate between Shen and Chiang.

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

#dpp #mayoraldebate #kmt #chiangwanan #pumashen

2026-10-16

Supporters flock to Shen’s final soapbox event at Linsen Park

One key part of Puma Shen’s campaigning for Taipei mayor has been his soapbox events, where he addresses questions and complaints from citizens. The final event took place took place on Thursday evening at Linsen Park. All 300 slips to submit questions were gone in just 15 minutes, showing just how eager locals were to reach Shen. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Concerned about nightlife
The nightlife in this part of the city always gets a bad rap. What can we do to preserve this unique culture?

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
I think it all comes down to making some changes to the brightness of the lighting and the color schemes here.

Member of public
Doesn’t feel protected
As a woman in the 20-to-30 age bracket, I don’t feel protected in Taipei.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
One of our policy proposals is to require all policies to undergo a safety audit before they are implemented so that people feel safe.

Shen engaged with residents on a wide range of issues throughout the soapbox series, which kicked off outside Nangang Exhibition Center on Sept. 17. Subsequent events were held at Ximending, Taipei Arena and Jiantan Station among other locations. Six events were held over the course of a month, all drawing packed crowds and positive feedback, in what was seen as a new approach to election campaigning in Taiwan. At the grand finale, Shen pledged that, if he takes office, he will continue holding the soapbox sessions to ensure local issues receive the attention they deserve.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#pumashen #election #dpp #taipei #politics

2026-10-16

Next gen Covid vaccine has less side effects: NTU Hospital doctor

Autumn and winter are the peak seasons for flu, Covid and other respiratory illnesses in Taiwan. The government has launched free flu and Covid shots for high risk groups but many people are hesitant because they worry about side effects. Now a top doctor says that a new Covid vaccine is being rolled out that reduces side effects. Older adults and people with chronic illnesses should get their shots as soon as possible as these respiratory illnesses pose a major health risk.

With the weather gradually cooling, autumn and winter mark a period of heightened activity for respiratory viruses, including the flu. Notably, Covid continues to evolve, and recently circulating variants may pose serious risks to the elderly and high-risk groups.

Hsieh Szu-min
NTU Hospital
Individuals with weaker immune systems—such as the elderly or those with underlying chronic conditions—are at risk of developing severe illnesses. This can lead to complications like severe pneumonia and respiratory failure, and may even be life-threatening. Furthermore, people in this high-risk group may develop cardiovascular complications following a Covid infection, such as stroke or myocardial infarction.

According to statistics, people aged 65 and older and those with chronic conditions face an approximately fivefold increase in the risk of a heart attack and a roughly tenfold increase in the risk of ischemic stroke following a Covid infection. Covid vaccines have been updated this year to offer a choice between protein subunit and mRNA technologies; however, despite the rollout of publicly funded vaccination programs, many people remain concerned about potential side effects.

Member of the public
Worries about side effects
I noticed that after getting the shot, I was more prone to hair loss and experienced muscle soreness that lasted for three or four days.

Hsieh Szu-min
NTU Hospital
Regarding RNA vaccines, a new generation of low-dose versions has been introduced; clinical trials from pharmaceutical companies have shown that these low-dose vaccines can potentially match the efficacy of standard RNA vaccines while reducing adverse reactions. As for recombinant protein vaccines, we have accumulated forty years of experience with them—spanning the entire history of their development for human use—and, generally speaking, the adverse reactions associated with this type of vaccine are generally more tolerated by most people.

Medical professionals advise older adults and high-risk groups to get vaccinated as early as possible against both influenza and Covid to build dual protection and reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization from infections during the autumn and winter months.

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

#Taiwanhealth #agingTaiwan #fluseason #coronavirus #vaccinations #Taiwanvaccinations

2026-10-16

Spanish drag couturier creates dazzling Taiwan-inspired designs

A self-taught drag costume designer from Spain is turning heads with his over-the-top creations, blending traditional Asian motifs and European flair into dazzling stage outfits. From flamenco dresses featuring Taiwanese Hakka prints to elaborate Venetian-inspired clown costumes, Iago Valín has taught himself everything from pattern-making to sewing. After coming to Taiwan as an exchange student 13 years ago, he found more than inspiration here. He found a place where he feels free, accepted, and proud to call home.

A groovy, glowing Christmas tree outfit, a ruffled flamenco dress dotted with Hakka print flowers, and an east-meet-west Venetian carnival jester costume. All of these drag looks shining on stage were created by Iago Valín, from Spain.

Iago Valín
Costume designer from Spain
If you look closely, you’ll see it’s all qipao brocades. So part of it comes from Asia, and part of it comes from Europe. I spent almost 200 hours on this one.

From design and pattern-making, to sewing it all together. Everything to the last stitch was crafted by Iago, who surprisingly is completely self-taught. By watching videos online, he learnt how to make outfits that only get more elaborate and grand.

Iago Valín
Costume designer from Spain
My mom does a lot of traditional crafts, so even since I was young I would see her making lace or dying fabrics. This shirt I also made myself. I used a bedsheet from when I was a kid. It’s full of my childhood memories.

Iago’s talent also extends to languages. He’s from Galicia, an autonomous community in northwest Spain that has a language of its own. In primary school, his family moved to the island of Jersey, a British Crown Dependency in the English Channel close to France. Besides speaking Galician, Spanish, English, French and Mandarin, he’s also studied German and even Ancient Greek and Latin. In university, he double majored in linguistics and Chinese, and fell in love with Taiwan after coming here on exchange.

Iago Valín
Costume designer from Spain
I first came to Taiwan because I was curious. I ended up loving it here. I feel like Taiwan is very free, and I feel really happy here. One part is because I’m gay, and Taiwan is a very accepting society. That was really important. Because when I’m out and about I don’t feel like I’m in danger or anything.

Having lived in Taiwan for 13 years now, Iago’s friends, partner and job are all here. The freedom and diversity of the island have made this his second home, and he’s here to stay.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#costumedesign #drag #梵雅戈 #sewing #taiwan

2026-10-16

Security guard takes advantage of new hire to steal NT$14.5 million

A security guard in a cash pickup run took advantage of a newly hired colleague to make off with millions in cash. The heist happened on Oct. 8 in Tainan. The security guard distracted his colleague and took off in the company’s armored vehicle, from where he stole NT$14.5 million in cash. Police have arrested four suspects but it is thought a fifth accomplice is still at large.

Cheng Po-hui
FTV reporter
The main suspect drove the armored truck to Section 3 of Jiankang Road. He told his colleague that they should split up, claiming there were many tasks to complete in the area. When his colleague left, he got on the armored truck and drove off.

Tsai Chia-chang
Police officer
He distracted the other security guard and fled in the armored truck, which he abandoned on Yongcheng Road. He stole more than NT$14 million in cash from inside the vehicle. We have tracked suspects to various locations in Taichung and Tainan. Four have been taken into custody and the stolen cash, vehicles, and other evidence have been collected.

The senior security guard drove the cash-loaded truck to a secluded area on Yongcheng Road, in the South District. He packed up NT$14.5 million and escaped on a scooter he had parked in the area in preparation for the heist. Authorities have recovered NT$12.55 million from the loot. Four suspects have been detained to be held incommunicado on suspicion of occupational embezzlement and violations of the Money Laundering Control Act. The investigation continues to determine the motive, whether other insiders were involved and where the remaining stolen money went.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#heist #tainan #money #securityguard #accomplice

2026-10-16

A new chapter begins for Tainan Railway Station

Locals in Tainan are witnessing a historic moment! At 10:29 on Friday evening, the century-old Tainan Railway Station will bid farewell to its final train and become a historical landmark. The closing of this beloved station coincides with the opening of the first phase of the underground railway project. The local community flooded the platform as people rushed to capture photos to preserve their memories with the station. Nearby shops also seized the chance to sell commemorative merchandise.

Dozens raise their phones to snap photos and videos. Every inch of the platform was filled with people capturing memories of their beloved station. Tainan Railway’s above-ground platform station will soon be decommissioned. Many locals flocked to the station to capture the last few images of the century-old railway where the lifelong memories were made before the trains are moved underground.

Member of public
Captured the event well
I came from the northernmost point and filmed all the way to the south side, then from the southernmost point to the north as well. I filmed every single one along the way.

Member of public
Capturing final moment
It’s about recording this final moment.

As more locals recorded Tainan Railway Station, they seemed to live through the years of memories made through it.

Member of public
Fond of the station
Going to school, dating, getting married, and military service was all going through Tainan Railway Station.

Member of public
Attached to train
I grew up in Tainan. I loved sitting on the train.

The massive farewell has created a lot of opportunity for local businesses, especially those preparing to move into the new underground station. Nearby bubble tea shops even offered special souvenirs such as key chains with purchases over a certain amount, so that customers could share the memory together.

Ms. Chiu
Drink shop staff
We use locally produced oranges to make our fresh fruit drinks. We hope more people will know more about Tainan’s fresh fruits.

Wang Yi-lun
Market Vendor
There are pop-up stores, this event will last for a whole month.

Aside from the month-long market to be held at the new station, Taiwan Railways Administration also launched a limited edition iPass with the design of the old station attracting many customers to buy it as a collectible.

Member of public
Bought special iPass
I’ll keep it as a souvenir. I won’t open it.

During this period, locals can be seen everyday stopping to take photos of the old railway station, not only recording the trains running through the city but also capturing how the city’s landscape evolves. With the final train departing tonight, a new chapter officially begins for Tainan Railway.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#tra #taiwanrailway #emotional #farewell #monument #tainan

2026-10-16

Lala Mountain designated Taiwan’s first ‘Urban Night Sky Place’

Want to see a night sky full of stars? Head over to Lala Mountain in Taoyuan, which was recently designated an official Urban Night Sky Place. The hard-won honor involved retrofitting over 400 streetlights and working with hotels to reduce light pollution. Now it’s Taiwan’s first place to receive the international certification, with further plans underway to incorporate local Atayal culture to create a new and improved ecotourism hotspot.

A canopy of stars twinkles overhead, like it’s straight out of a storybook. But this dreamy scene is right here in Taiwan, on Lala Mountain in Taoyuan. The area was recently designated Taiwan’s first official Urban Night Sky Place. The mayor went to personally accept the honor.

Simon Chang
Taoyuan Mayor
This is Taiwan’s second Night Sky certification. The first was Hehuanshan, a park. This one is an urban area. Lalashan isn’t urban per se, but according to DarkSky International’s guidelines, any area within 50km of an urban center qualifies. We plan to map out itineraries for visitors to enjoy nature and experience Atayal culture while also stargazing at night.

The city spared no effort in meeting the organization’s standards. Since Taoyuan is adjacent to dense urban areas with severe light pollution, the local government worked hard to retrofit over 400 streetlights, adjusting the angles and adding light shields to make sure the ground stays safely illuminated without affecting the skies. It also worked with hotels to remove unnecessary lighting.

Nalayini Brito-Davies
DarkSky International board president
The government of Mt. Lala should be congratulated for taking a difficult decision to work through their regulations and do some retrofitting and make this happen.

Hayung Watan
Fusing District Office official
We’ve seen so much effort put in by the government. Over the past year, we’ve found that the Dark Sky initiative has served as the spark for us to care more deeply about our land. Beyond this, integrating the nocturnal environment with Atayal culture has also become extremely important.

In addition to protecting the night sky, the project aims to boost tourism. The Taoyuan City Government is promoting 13 travel itineraries for visitors to enjoy thousand-year-old ancient trees and Atayal culture by day, before gazing up at the Milky Way at night for a full day of incredible experiences.

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

#Lalashan #LalaMountain #Taoyuan #DarkSkyInternational #Atayal #tourism #UrbanNightSkyPlace #nightsky

2026-10-16

Surfing competition to draw top athletes to Taitung in November

The 2026 Taiwan Open of Surfing will make an action-packed return to Taitung next month. This year’s upgraded competition in Jinzun has a prize purse of NT$5 million, the highest ever for a surfing open in Taiwan. The excitement will also come onto land for the first time, with skateboarding, street dance, and fitness challenges drawing competitors from all over the world.

The 2026 Taiwan Open of Surfing kicks off on Nov. 6 in Taitung’s Jinzun Harbor. At a press conference before the event, organizers unveiled this year’s highlights.

The most special part of the 16th edition this year is that we gained approval from the World Surf League to host the highest-level 6,000-point event for both men’s and women’s longboard right here in Taitung. It’s a huge vote of confidence for surfing in Taiwan.

The Taiwan Open of Surfing hosted by the Taitung County Government is entering its 16th year. This year’s edition is to be divided into international and domestic events with historic upgrades in competition standards. Beyond serving as a WSL Qualifying Series 6,000 event—one of only four globally—Taitung will be the final leg of the season. Eligibility has also expanded across all seven continents for the first time, with a record-breaking prize pool.

Sports events naturally combine with tourism, especially in a place as beautiful as Taitung. I trust that the county government is working very hard to keep improving this event. It provides more Taiwanese athletes with opportunities to compete alongside and learn from their international peers.

Beyond top-tier surfing, there will also be land-based events for the first time, including a skateboarding jam, street dance battles, and “Wild East Taitung” fitness challenge. Organizers are also promoting travel itineraries for people in town for the competition to enjoy all that Taitung has to offer.

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

#surfing #WSL #TaiwanOpenofSurfing #sports #Taitung #streetdance #skateboarding

2026-10-16

TSMC confirms talks with Musk over Texas fab

TSMC delivered another stellar performance in the third quarter, with revenue up 50% year-on-year and earnings per share hitting a record NT$29.43. CEO C.C. Wei emphasized that surging AI demand has the company racing to expand capacity and develop advanced packaging technologies. Last week, reports emerged that TSMC was considering building a factory in Texas, amid claims from Tesla CEO Elon Musk that discussions were underway. Wei addressed the speculation for the first time at the company’s latest earnings conference. Let’s hear more.

Voice of C.C. Wei
TSMC CEO
The demand is extremely robust, getting higher and higher. We look at it from every angle. [We do our own] one more step to check the data center build-out. [Demand is] higher than the supply, and we are working very hard to narrow the gap. [We did] expand our capacities’ consideration to see outside Arizona. We sent the teams to Texas to do all the evaluation. We also talked to one of our customers who’s trying to build a fab, Terafab [and] see whether we can be utilizing that actual capacity. We are still in discussions. The fab has got to be run by TSMC.

Voice of Wendell Huang
TSMC CFO
[Our CapEx] from 2026 to 2028 is expected to be significantly higher than the past three years. We have no intention to leave any food on the table for others.

TSMC has set its full-year capital expenditure budget between US$60 billion and US$64 billion. The company remains a leader in wafer manufacturing to mass production of advanced packaging at the 5-inch size. It is also developing larger formats and advancing its CoPoS technology, aiming to keep a firm grip on any growing business opportunities that come up.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#tsmc #tech #us #arizona #chips

2026-10-15

Designer-clad Taipei 101 chair sparks debate over professionalism

Who would have thought that dressing well for a public appearance would garner backlash? Taipei 101’s Chairwoman, Janet Chia certainly didn’t. On Wednesday,
Chia paid a visit to the Legislative Yuan, but her attire is what stole the spotlight. She wore a black dress with a cream-colored Dior jacket draped over her shoulders, which prompted a legislator to ask her to dress more “simple” like everyone else. The tense exchange even resulted in President Lai Ching-te posting on Facebook in support of Chia, underscoring that professionalism isn’t judged by clothing.

Lai: Chairwoman Janet, Taipei 101 represents trends and fashion.
Chia: Yes.
Lai: I’d also like to advise you to next time, next time, please dress the same as us, simple.
Chia: I’m wearing the same as you all, same full-sleeves.

On Wednesday morning, a small standoff broke out at the Legislative Yuan as Taipei 101’s Chairwoman Janet Chia arrived for questioning. She was singled out by DPP Legislator Lai who felt her attire was not “simple” enough.

Lai: I think within the Legislative Yuan, there should be a standard
Chia: But, I really think that I am wearing the same as you all.
Lai: Are we continuing the discussion?
Chia: I am not discussing, I just think, that I am being very respectful of the Legislative Yuan.

Chia showed up in a black dress with a cream Dior jacket, and Chanel earrings and attempted to justify her attire but was interrupted again.

Chia: But I am definitely...
Lai: Alright, let’s have Yang Chiung-ying’s question.

Chia had barely finished a sentence when she was interrupted about her jacket, which she later wore to another event that afternoon.

Janet Chia
Chairwoman of Taipei 101
I don’t think I’ve been wronged, honestly speaking; I was just stunned because I really don’t know there was a dress code for going to the Legislative Yuan. I also asked a few other chairwomen if there was a dress code or I needed to buy clothes and they said there really wasn’t.

Chia displayed a calm demeanor but admitted that the exchange affected her mood. Ever active on social media, she personally broke down her outfit that evening. Besides her Dior jacket, she also wore a Cartier bracelet, Ferragamo shoes, and a Dior watch she’s had for 30 years. Her lighthearted and charming response catalyzed even more discussion online, with many flocking to Lai’s social media demanding an apology. Faced with public pressure, she posted a video that evening.

Lai Hui-yuan
Legislator (DPP)
I noticed when I reviewed the video later, that there were inappropriate aspects of it. The whole incident made her and the public uncomfortable. I feel deeply apologetic about this and will reflect on it.

Not only did this spark discussion online, President Lai Ching-te also took to social media to publicly support Janet Chia, posting a photo of him wearing a floral shirt to a meeting, emphasizing that professionalism and dedication in all walks of life should not solely be judged by clothing. The controversy continued the following day, with the topic of her attire still part of public discourse.

Lee Yang
Minister of Sports
I had bought a nice suit then, and I hoped that such a nice suit would be respectful to wear to the Legislative Yuan, I thought it looked good on me.

Huang Chieh
Legislator (DPP)
Actually, I think, Janet Chia represents fashion. She has her own way of expressing respect to the Legislative Yuan. I believe that everyone would appreciate that.

Chen Pei-yu
Legislator (DPP)
Lai Hui-yuan already publicly apologized, also posted and recorded a video, so I think this resolves it and concludes the matter here.

Chia clearly eased matters over by posting an AI-generated photo of herself and Legislator Lai dressed up and shopping, with the caption, “Dior should pay us an endorsement fee. Shopping sprees are justified and life is beautiful.” As the chairperson of Taipei 101, Chia also represents high-fashion and never misses an opportunity to show up and show out.

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

#janetchia #taipei101chairwoman #laichingte #highfashion #taipei101

2026-10-15

CCP label Kevin Tsai as ‘two-faced’ ahead of mayoral elections

TV host, Kevin Tsai recently made a discrete appearance at Puma Shen’s campaign event. The move earned him criticism from China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, who said he was a two-faced person. Tsai promised to attend Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s ceremony at his campaign headquarters as well. Now that he received the invite, he posted a message on social media saying in advance that he would only watch and not go on stage. He also brought up Janet Chia’s Dior jacket controversy as a reason for him to dress in a simple black suit.

Kevin Tsai’s cameo at Puma Shen’s campaign headquarters ceremony made headlines, but to even the field, he agreed to attend Mayor Chiang’s event as well. In a recent post, however, he stated there were conditions to his attendance.

Tsai shared an article that mentioned that the attendees of Chiang Wan-an’s campaign headquarters inauguration would sing campaign songs together. Tsai, commented that as a guest, he would simply cheer everyone on from his seat. He added that, since he made no contributions, he wasn’t qualified to participate in the song and dance segment. He also referenced Janet Chia’s Dior jacket drama as a reason to wear a black suit, which prompted Chia to reply and say “No, you should wear the most sparkly one!”

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
We should respect everyone’s clothing and wearing. There were no requests or invitations for Kevin Tsai to come on stage. We would welcome him to participate and arrange for him to be in the VIP area.

Kang Jen-chun
Media personality
Election culture is that, if you stand on someone’s stage, it indicates support. Why would Kevin Tsai, with nothing better to do, deliberately say, “I will not go on stage to sing Taipei Encore?”

Tsai’s public remarks caused netizens to become investigators. Some joked that the black suit is meant for funerals. Some even became fashion translators, suggesting his clothes meant “please sit still and do not approach me.” Locals discussed this enthusiastically, but China’s Taiwan Affairs Office was furious, labeling Tsai as a two-faced person.

Chen Binhua (Oct. 14)
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office
Taiwan is an inseparable part of China’s territory, any force or any person cannot reap the benefits of the Mainland while colluding with pro-independence forces in Taiwan and acting two-faced.

Liang Wen-chieh
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council
All I can say is the CCP can’t let go of Puma Shen. Kevin Tsai is only a scapegoat, the CCP would obviously not want Taiwanese people to have the freedom of choice. They thought it would help Mayor Chiang, but I think it’s making matters worse. They need to be careful before they harm someone’s life.

With the mayoral elections looming, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office is also turning up the heat which may be doing more harm than good.

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

#ccp #chiangwanan #pumashen #kevintsai #dpp #janetchia

2026-10-15

Rescuers find man missing since Tuesday in Pingtung mountains

A desperate search, and a NT$1 million reward. A 36-year-old company executive who vanished in the mountains of Pingtung on Tuesday, has finally been found. Mr. Shin was rescued from the bottom of a steep slope at Timur Art Park in Sandimen, after more than a day of search efforts. His family had announced a reward of NT$1 million to find him, and now that he’s safe, a friend of his says the reward money may be donated to the rescue teams.

A rescue squad is hard at work at Timur Art Park in Pingtung’s Sandimen. They hold on tight to the ropes as they approach Mr. Hsin, who fell down the slope.

Firefighters and rescuers coordinate a strategy to help Mr. Hsin climb up step by step, with the help of ropes. His body is covered in scratches, and his left hand is bandaged. Despite looking quite disheveled, he was conscious. Once he was out of the woods, he was laid down on a stretcher and taken to hospital for a checkup.

Cheng Wei-hsun
Rescuer
He had scratches on his left hand, and bruises on his knees. He couldn’t move very much, but he was conscious.

Voice of neighbor
Knows Mr. Hsin
I think he doesn’t live here, he comes here for work.

Mr. Hsin is 36 years old and the vice president of a bathroom company from Spain in Kaohsiung. He went missing on Tuesday, after leaving his home by car. His family tracked his cellphone location, and found his car at Timur Art Park in Sandimen. The car keys were on the car, but Mr. Hsin was nowhere to be found. His desperate family put up a reward of NT$1 million to for anyone who found him.

Voice of Mr. Hsin’s friend
Considering what to do with reward
The police and fire fighters have found him just know. We should donate the NT$1 million to the rescuer agencies. We’ll see what we do after he’s settled in.

Rescuers searched for Mr. Hsin in the mountains for one day and one night. He was finally found on Thursday morning, at the bottom of a steep slope. He was rescued without further issues. Rescuers believe he may have accidentally slipped and fallen while hiking on the mountain.

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

#mountain #missing #hiking #pingtung #bathroom

2026-10-15

Pepper spray mishap sends 7 middle schoolers to hospital

A group of middle school students on Wednesday learned not to play with dangerous chemicals, after a mishap with a pepper spray that sent seven students to the hospital. The incident happened during recess, when two students were messing around with the weapon. The spray was accidentally triggered and seven students inhaled the gas. Let’s hear more.

Director of student affairs
Middle school
They were playing with the spray yesterday. From what we know, they weren’t spraying it directly at anyone, just into the air. Perhaps then it drifted into the classroom, where the students inhaled it. It’s a very irritant chemical.

Chang Chiung-sheng
Pingtung County Education Department
The school has arranged counseling sessions with the class. We have asked the school to ramp up security measures, and educate students on the use of protective equipment.

Chen Chien-chih
Paochien Hospital Emergency Physician
Usually the effects of the spray don’t last long. It wears off in about half an hour. The four kids who were brought in yesterday were experiencing throat pain. Their throats appeared a bit red and inflamed.

The school does not prohibit students from carrying pepper spray for self-defense. These products often contain chemical irritants such as capsaicin, tear gas or mustard essential oil. When sprayed as a mist, the substances can cause severe coughing, a burning sensation in the throat and choking if inhaled. They may also cause dizziness and eye irritation. The school says it will teach students about the substances, emphasizing the proper use of such products and their potential risks.

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#pepperspray #school #pingtung #middleschool #schoolife

2026-10-15

Man jumps onto train tracks after pocket money fight with mother

An alleged argument over pocket money ended up with a man jumping onto the tracks at Tainan Railway Station on Wednesday evening. The 20-year-old man leapt from the platform just as a train was approaching. But thankfully, staff and other passengers were quick to react and pulled him back up just in time. Fortunately, tragedy was averted, but police have referred him for legal action. Let’s hear more.

Security guard
Tainan Railway Station
He was arguing with his mother. Then he jumped onto the tracks. The train was about to arrive, so we called the railway police to pull him back up.

Member of public
Finds man inconsiderate
It affects everyone’s safety. I think it’s so irresponsible.

Member of public
Thinks man overreacted
Was it necessary to go that far?

Liu Po-chun
Railway police officer
During an argument with his mother, Mr. Lo lost control of his emotions and jumped onto the tracks, which caused train number 168 to stop outside Tainan Railway Station, causing a 2-minute delay.

The man was allegedly arguing with his mother because he’d run out of pocket money. The fight became so intense, that he ended up jumping off the platform and onto the tracks. The station master was immediately alerted, and the train was told to stop outside the station, averting tragedy. The man was pulled back up onto the platform with scratched his knees and still visibly upset. He was then sent to the hospital. Police say that crossing over the track result in fines of NT$10,000 to NT$50,000, and in severe cases up to NT$100,000.

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#train #tracks #pocketmoney #argument #mother

2026-10-15

Doctors address treating drug addiction amid campaign controversy

Incumbent Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has been targeting his opponent Puma Shen by attacking a drug policy he wrote 12 years ago. However, as argued, data show that prescribing drug users methadone and providing them with clean needles has effectively reduced reoffending rates. Doctors also note that patients must undergo strict screening before being prescribed methadone.

Drugs have become a political battleground in Taiwan.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
Legislator Shen advocates for handing out drugs and needles at community centers.

Puma Shen
Taipei mayoral candidate (DPP)
This amounts to outright stigmatization. I will take legal action because this is purely spreading false rumors.

Medically speaking, what’s the best treatment for drug addiction? One former drug addict, Hsiao Tzu, spent time at a rehab center. Her depression and hopelessness fed her addiction.

Hsiao Tzu
Recovering drug addict
I was mentally addicted, not physically. I really wanted to use drugs when I was sad. If I couldn’t sleep, I would use.

But quitting a drug addiction is extremely challenging. Looking back on past drug cases, the rate of relapse is astoundingly high.

Lin Min-chieh
Criminology professor
Because the body gets addicted to drugs, people may think that someone can quit in seven to 10 days. But some addictions aren’t so easy to quit, and they’re psychological. If you detain a person for three or five days, or even six months, the first thing they do when they get out is use.

Ministry of Justice data shows that in 2005, about 50% of all inmates were imprisoned for drug use, and 70% of them relapsed within two years. That year, Taipei launched a program to treat drug addiction with methadone and provide clean needles. More recent data shows that now only 24.8% of inmates are imprisoned for drug use, and the relapse rate has dropped to around 35%. From 2023 through June this year, Taipei issued over 930,000 clean needles, and four hospitals in the city have been providing methadone treatment.

Huang Ming-chyi
Taipei City Hospital Songde branch director
Access to methadone at the pharmacy window is strictly controlled. We use facial recognition to verify patients’ identities when they arrive. The medication is colored, so we check their mouths to make sure they’ve swallowed it.

Medical professionals emphasize that drug harm reduction programs do not encourage or condone drug use. They urge these policies not to be taken out of context or be used as a political campaign tool.

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#drug #druguse #drugaddiction #addiction #relapse #treatment #rehab #Taipei #campaign #TaipeiMayor #election

2026-10-15

Police seeking owner after huskies cause traffic chaos in Kaohsiung

A driver in Kaohsiung recently captured footage of four huskies weaving between traffic on a major road. When they reached an intersection, they suddenly swerved, forcing vehicles to hit the brakes to narrowly avoid an accident. It was harrowing to watch. As for where they came from, residents said they’d never seen the dogs before. Police said they’re trying to track down the owner for questioning.

Four huskies sprint down the fast lane as the drivers around them scramble to slam on the brakes.

When they get to this intersection, they make a sudden turn down the crosswalk.

Member of public
Local business owner
It’s really dangerous for both the dogs and the drivers on the road.

Drivers along Kaohsiung’s Zhongzheng First Road were surprised to see the dogs sprinting by in the fast lane. Bounding along like they were in a park, the four huskies ran into a small side street before turning right into an alley. There were many witnesses to the incident.

Member of public
Witness
They turned in here briefly, then headed back in that direction. It’s so dangerous. I also noticed there didn’t seem to be an owner around. This is a main road. Running around loose like that is extremely dangerous if a car drives out suddenly.

All four dogs appeared to be well taken care of, but there wasn’t an owner in sight and they didn’t have collars. No one knows where they came from. But failing to keep pets under proper supervision and letting them off-leash is against the law.

Kao Chen-li
Fude Police Station deputy chief
Negligence or letting animals roam freely on the street to the detriment of traffic carries a fine of NT$300 to NT$600 for the owner or responsible party.

These four silly huskies darting through traffic looks like it’s straight out of an animated movie, but real life is no cartoon. They thankfully didn’t cause an accident this time, but it left the drivers thoroughly shaken.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#trafficsafety #huskies #Kaohsiung #offleash #loosedog

2026-10-15

Changhua seniors fight sarcopenia with taekwondo

A taekwondo coach regularly comes from a neighboring community to teach the 23 seniors at a care center in Changhua’s Shengang Township. He tailored a special program for these students aged between 70 and 95, emphasizing safer, simpler moves that are easy to learn.

Looking sharp in their uniforms, this class of seniors keeps to their coach’s rhythm while throwing punches. Those who have trouble standing join in while sitting off to the side.

The care center here in Changhua’s Shengang Township cares for 23 seniors ranging in age from 70 to 95. To keep them active, a taekwondo coach from a nearby community designed a specialized course that he holds regularly at the center.

Ko Tsung-yu
Taekwondo coach
I noticed that they may be losing muscle and are lacking exercise. Since 70% of taekwondo involves footwork, I opened a class here mostly centered on warm-ups and stretching.

The coach wants to emphasize that taekwondo isn’t exclusive to young people. By tailoring safe and simple moves to each student’s ability, everyone can join in without worry. The center also ordered custom uniforms thanks to a donation from a foundation.

Shih Hui-chi
Care center director
At first, we just wanted them to try it out. But after one or two sessions, they started really looking forward to the coach coming by. Putting on the uniforms feels right and gives it a sense of ceremony. It makes the class even more fun.

Besides boosting awareness of self-defense, the class also gets seniors moving and gives them something new to master.

#Changhua #seniors #carecenter #seniorfitness #taekwondo #agedsociety #excercise

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2026-10-15

Date set for Kaohsiung mayoral debate: Friday Oct. 30 at 8pm

With just over a month to go until the local elections, the calendar is filling up with televised debates between the candidates. The first event will be a debate for the candidates for Kaohsiung’s mayoralty. It will be hosted by Formosa TV, CTi News, and PTS Taigi from 8 to 10 in the evening on Friday, Oct. 30. The organizers on Wednesday spoke with the participating parties to draw up a structure for the debate. Let’s hear more.

Ko Chih-en
Kaohsiung Mayoral Candidate (KMT)
Both parties have agreed for a 90-minute debate at 8 in the evening on Oct. 30. There will be questions from the media, cross examination and personal statements. We will accept all sorts of questions, and we hope that it will be a good debate so that everyone can have a clear picture of where each candidate stands on municipal issues.

Lai Jui-lung
Kaohsiung Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
Through the debate, I hope that everyone can better understand how my experience in the city government as a lawmaker translates to concrete policies for the city. I will also welcome my rival to ask any questions they may have about the past few years, including past construction projects and the vision for the future. I hope she will explain her visions clearly as well.

The debate will be divided into four parts: policy presentations, questions from media, cross-examination, and closing remarks. Formosa TV and CTi News will appoint a senior professional media representative as the questioner, while the host will be a representative from PTS Taigi. The three media outlets and both sides have also agreed that a second coordination meeting will be held next Wednesday at noon to discuss matters further.

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#debate #politics #kaohsiung #taiwan #democracy

2026-10-14

Busy Puma Shen arrives late to Songshan Airport hearing

Taipei’s Mayor, Chiang Wan-an, recently proposed shutting down Songshan Airport to build an AI park in the city. KMT legislator, Hsu Chiao-hsin, scheduled a special hearing at the Legislative Yuan today on the matter. She started off by criticizing Puma Shen for being absent, as he was on a radio program. Even though Shen rushed over immediately after the interview, Hsu made a sarcastic comment that being late is better than not being there at all. DPP legislator Wang Yi-chuan could not tolerate this any longer and had a verbal argument with Hsu on the spot.

KMT legislator Hsu Chiao-hsin and DPP legislator Wang Yi-chuan got into a heated argument. Hsu, a member of the National Defense Committee, arranged a special hearing on the relocation of Songshan Airport, and had to extend the registration time for speaking for Puma Shen’s sake, who was attending Jaw Shau-kong’s radio program.

Hsu Chiao-hsin
Legislator (KMT)
I think we should extend the speech registration time to noon to prevent any legislators from losing an opportunity to express their concerns. That, I think would be a pity.

From the presentation of the case to speeches, Hsu was coming for Shen, and even left a comment under Jaw’s live broadcast telling Shen to come back to work after the interview. Shen’s interview finished at 10 and he arrived at the National Defense committee and registered to speak by 10:25. But Hsu still made a fuss about it.

- Better late than never.
- Its hilarious. That’s how the KMT is, making comments about something.

Puma Shen
Legislator (DPP)
I think Hsu Chiao-hsin is a very warm person, and even left a message saying the registration could be extended. Just now, when I wanted to ask a question at noon, she was taking a break so that we could have lunch. So, warm people can consider joining the O’Shen movement.

Shen spoke about the Songshan Airport proposal announced by the KMT’s Chiang Wan-an. Chiang’s party is now attacking Defense Minister Wellington Koo, who also proposed a relocation plan in 2014.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
When Minister Koo was running for Taipei Mayor, he suggested that once the Taoyuan Airport MRT was operational, then the future of Songshan Airport could be considered.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
Proposing this 20 or 30 years ago and proposing things now is very different because the throughput is changing. Songshan Airport handles many domestic routes, including the special operations we just mentioned which are related to disaster prevention and medical evacuation.

Tung Tzu-hsien
Chairman of Pegatron
I’m not on board with the relocation of Songshan Airport. A major capital city should have its own small to medium-sized transportation hub.

The proposition of relocating Songshan Airport has become an extensive issue in the Taipei mayoral election.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#pumashen #songshanairport #chiangwanan #legislativeyuan #沈伯洋 #蔣萬安

2026-10-14