Logo
  • Home

頭條新聞 Headline News

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.

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

#debate #politics #kaohsiung #taiwan #democracy

Time：2026-10-14

最新消息 Latest News

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:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#pumashen #songshanairport #chiangwanan #legislativeyuan #沈伯洋 #蔣萬安

2026-10-14

KMT fires at Jaw Jaw Shau-kong for two Puma Shen interviews

Puma Shen, Taipei’s DPP Mayoral Candidate, visited media personality, Jaw Shau-kong last Wednesday for an interview. The video surpassed 1 million views. Just a week later, Shen appeared again on Jaw’s radio show and was grilled in the hot seat. Shen’s good responses during the two interviews have given the KMT whiplash and infuriated party members who believe it is detrimental to Chiang Wan-an. Some took to social media to criticize Jaw, who fired back saying, “Who advised you to insult me?”

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
I don’t think I will resign as a legislator. Of course, sometimes resignations will give the impression that you are brave or determined. But, I think throughout this process, I have consistently demonstrated my determination.

Taipei’s DPP Mayoral Candidate, Puma Shen, reiterates his commitment to the duties of a legislator during his second interview with Jaw Shau-kong in seven days.

Jaw Shau-kong
Media personality
Do you have a fixed group of people that move with you or does it change with every new place?

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
In the early days, about 10% were familiar faces, while 90% are new faces from the local area. I won’t be too strict and say, “Oh you don’t live in Taipei, I won’t shake hands with you.”

As expected, Jaw asked sharp questions, and clearly spoke his mind about the current situation in Taipei.

Jaw Shau-kong
Media personality
When looking down at Taipei from a mountain viewpoint, it’s quite ugly. So many illegal extensions to buildings are ruining the landscape.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
When Alex Honnold climbed Taipei 101, I saw he pointed his camera down and immediately turned it away and used a soft-focus effect because of the roofs. I want to help extend the lifespan of old houses.

Shen has appeared on Jaw’s program twice, from a panel with three to a 1-1. Regarding Shen’s performance, Jaw also gives a high score of 7 to 8 out of 10. But not long after airing, the interview has left many in the KMT furious. Former KMT legislator, Chiu Yi posted an article condemning Jaw, for “acting like a traitor waving the KMT flag while betraying them.” Julian Kuo also criticized Jaw for platforming the enemy camp twice.

Wu Tzu-chia
Chairman of My Formosa
Jaw Shau-kong is truly shameless. This interview has left a stain on your life. After harming the KMT, what do you gain?

Jaw Shau-kong
Media personality
Am I that talented? Am I that great that interviewing Shen will damage the KMT and Chiang Wan-an? How is that possible? There are some people that rant every day, and I’m wondering if they’re doing it for views or something, like cursing me will get them traffic, or if they’re being instructed by some organization to do it.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
From the media’s point-of-view, this is a fair approach. If he invited everyone but me, it would be very weird. So I think this criticism of Brother Jaw is unfounded.

Shen spoke out on behalf of criticism against Jaw, who has been actively expanding his influence and not only becoming a thorn in the side of KMT but also stirring the pot.

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

#kmt #dpp #趙少康 #沈伯洋 #pumashen #chiangwanan

2026-10-14

Inconsiderate citizen throws 7 air-cons into touristy canal

After its restoration several years ago, the Liuchuan Canal in Taichung has become a must-visit spot for tourists to the city. Although it’s a picturesque local attraction, some see it as a dumping ground for trash. An inconsiderate rule-breaker discarded seven air-conditioning machines into the river. The appliances were captured on video floating in the current, until the Environmental Protection Bureau was notified and stepped in. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Upset at littering
The Liuchuan Canal is not a tipping ground. If you want to throw stuff away, you should tell sanitation workers.

Yao Tsung-yu
Chief of Environmental Protection Bureau
We will review surveillance footage from cameras in the vicinity to indentify the perpetrator, who is facing a fine of between NT$1,200 and NT$100,000 in accordance with the Waste Disposal Act.

The Environmental Protection Bureau dispatched personnel to inspect the site and notified the river management authority to remove the waste. It will also review surveillance footage to identify the perpetrators. Residents posted about the incident online. Some complained that the Liuchuan Canal had finally been beautifully cleaned up, only to have someone treat it as a dump. Others said there was no point throwing air conditioners in the water, as the fish won’t help repair them.
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

#aircon #taichung #landmark #travel #airconditioning

2026-10-14

Chiayi to hold inaugural coffee festival with award-winning estates

Specialty coffee from Taiwan is gaining international renown, especially those grown in the high-elevation Alishan region. For the first time, Chiayi is hosting a festival dedicated to specialty coffee from Oct. 24 to 26 at the Suantou Sugar Refinery. Thirty gold-medal-winning producers are participating, and experts are to give live demonstrations, including the World Siphonist Champion. Everyone is invited to come and experience the magic of Taiwan’s very own high-end coffee.

Taiwan’s specialty coffee has been winning more international accolades in recent years, especially the beans grown in the high-elevation Alishan region.

Chang Wei-shin
World Siphonist Champion
Whether talking about flavor or cultivation, we’ve achieved excellent results. We hope to introduce more people around the world to Alishan coffee.

The event is to bring together 30 award-winning estates across the coffee-growing corridor that includes Alishan, Meishan, Zhuqi, and more, allowing visitors to sample coffees from different altitudes and varieties, all in one place. It also highlights how some traditional tea-growers are shifting toward high-yield coffee cultivation.

Yeh Shi-yuan
Coffee Industry Association of Chiayi chair
The proportion of farmers planting coffee is steadily growing. At the moment, we have a dozen or so farmers who are changing over their low-yield tea fields to grow coffee instead.

Tsou Chih-wei
Seasonal coffee grower
Since our ginger duck restaurant closes for four months in the summer, I’ve been using that time to go back to Alishan to grow coffee. Over time, I’ve developed a passion for making coffee.

The promise of high profits from growing specialty coffee has drawn interest from all over. Looking to support the burgeoning industry, the Chiayi County Government is spinning out the coffee portion from its annual tea expo to host a festival dedicated to coffee for the first time.

Weng Chang-liang
Chiayi County Commissioner
Before, we always included coffee growers in our annual Tea Expo, but now they’re standing on their own. Chiayi coffee has gotten a fantastic reception in competitions both home and abroad in recent years, earning top honors.

This highly anticipated coffee extravaganza is to be held from Oct. 24 to 26 at the Suantou Sugar Refinery. Coffee lovers are invited to drop by that weekend to explore the unique flavors that Alishan 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

#Alishan #coffee #Chiayi #specialtycoffee #SuantouSugarRefinery #festival

2026-10-14

Former US admiral urges Taiwan to stay strategic amid China intrusions

Chinese coast guard ships are increasingly testing Taiwan’s defenses, repeatedly intruding into restricted waters and raising concerns over the risk of maritime isolation. As Beijing ramps up its gray-zone tactics, how can Taiwan protect its waters without wearing down its own forces? At an international maritime security conference in Taipei, experts gathered to discuss regional cooperation and ways to strengthen Taiwan’s resilience. A retired four-star US Navy admiral also delivered a warning: Taiwan shouldn’t take the bait and rush to respond to every move China makes.

The 2026 International Conference on Sea Lane Security was held on Wednesday at the Taipei International Convention Center. This year, a key theme was maritime safety.

Raymond Sung
Ocean Affairs Council
The opening keynote speech, we are very honored to have Admiral Dennis Blair from the US to give us an observation from the strategic point of view about the current gray zone operations against Taiwan.

In recent years, Chinese coast guard vessels have tested Taiwan’s defenses by intruding into restricted waters. In each case, the Coast Guard Administration has dispatched patrol boats to drive them away. Amid the gray-zone tactics and the risk of marine isolation, experts from home and abroad discussed maritime security, with a focus on cooperation, risk management and resilience.

Retired four-star US Navy Admiral Dennis Blair delivered a keynote speech via video conference, focusing on recommendations to counter China’s gray-zone operations against Taiwan’s sovereignty. Blair urged Taiwan to closely monitor China’s coastal activities through technology and intelligence gathering, but warned against rushing to respond to every single action.

Dennis Blair
Retired US Admiral
Taiwan should not exhaust its flying and steaming hours attempting to escort every single Chinese ship or aircraft in its EEZ or ADIZ. Its enforcement strategy should be based on a prioritized threat assessment and should maintain the element of unpredictability in order to retain the initiative.

The conference was held for the first time in the 1980s. In this year’s edition, the focus was stability in 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

#stability #taiwanstrait #maritimelaw #navy #coastguard

2026-10-14

Taichung BRT bus driver refuses to reopen doors for woman

It can be a bummer when you rush to the stop and just miss the bus. But it’s definitely a worse feeling if you make it in time, and the bus driver refuses to open the doors for you. That’s what happened to a woman in Taichung catching the bus at a BRT station on Taiwan Boulevard. The bus had just closed its doors when the woman rushed over and desperately waved at the driver, asking to be let on. Even though the bus was still stationary at the stop, the driver refused to reopen the doors for her and left her behind. A video of the scene has gone viral online, drawing two very different camps. Lets’ hear more.

Member of public
Thinks drivers should open doors
If someone’s approaching, it’d be better if they reopened the doors and waited for a bit. They’re still at the stop after all.

Member of public
Excuses leaving passengers behind
Some drivers might be considering traffic rules. If their light is green, they’ll just go on without opening the doors.

Member of public
Bothered by time-wasting
It’s a waste of time having to wait for the next bus. It’s a real pain, especially when there’s still space on the bus.

Voice of Hsu Shih-hua
Taichung transport official
The current rules are that all buses must stop and open the doors to let passengers on at the dedicated stations along Taiwan Boulevard. If a passenger wants to board after the doors are closed, the bus driver must reopen the doors if they haven’t yet left the station.

The video even attracted a comment from Taichung mayoral candidate Ho Hsin-chun of the DPP, who said that she’d be really mad if that happened to her. Previously, there was indeed a rule that did not allow bus drivers to open the doors a second time at the same station on dedicated bus lanes. But the rule was scrapped and changed earlier this year. Transport officials say they will increase oversight on operators to prevent similar situations in the future.

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

#bus #taichung #brt #publictransport #citylife

2026-10-14

Joss paper ash causes dust explosion in garbage truck

Sanitation workers in Changhua’s Fuxing Township had a scare recently, when a resident threw away undoused joss paper ashes. As the bag was compressed in the truck, it created an explosion of dust, along with what appeared to be red sparks. The sanitation worker was left thoroughly shaken and covered in ash. Luckily, the suspected sparks were just the truck’s brake lights and no one was injured.

This security camera footage shows people tossing bags into a garbage truck. The next second, there’s a huge cloud of dust, with what appear to be red sparks.

The sanitation worker takes the brunt of the burst. He’s left covered in ash from head to toe as the driver behind looks on in shock.

This dust explosion happened as the sanitation team in Changhua’s Fuxing Township was collecting trash in Xiucuo Village. A resident had put burnt joss paper in a trash bag and threw it away without dousing it in water first. When it was compacted in the truck, the bag burst open, exploding in a dust cloud.

Member of public
Religious observer
After burning joss paper, we let it sit for a while. Then when it’s fully extinguished, we douse it in water before throwing it away.

Luckily, the red flash in the video was just the truck’s brake lights, not sparks. No one was injured.

Voice of Chiang Yen-teng
Fuxing Township Mayor
No sanitation workers were hurt. I want to remind everyone, after burning joss paper, you absolutely cannot put it directly into a plastic bag to throw away. It’s very dangerous.

Although a false alarm this time, such careless behavior can end up harming innocent workers. Failing to douse ashes with water can cause explosive dust clouds and may have hidden embers that could trigger a fire.

Liao Heng-chang
Chemistry teacher
When cleaning up, people might see the ashes and assume they’re cool. But I still suggest adding some water to reduce the chance of dust flying everywhere.

It’s important to follow safety protocols after burning joss paper, especially remembering to douse the ashes before throwing them away. Don’t let a moment of convenience compromise others’ safety.

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

#josspaper #trash #accident #dustexplosion #publicsafety #PSA #Changhua #sanitationworker

2026-10-14

Taitung doctor to work alongside OB-GYN who delivered her

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Taitung Christian Hospital recently welcomed its second female OB-GYN, Dr. Lin Ya-chu. What makes her arrival even more remarkable is that Dr Huang Wen-chang, who works in the same department, was the physician who oversaw her delivery decades ago! Though spanning generations, the doctor and the baby he once delivered have now become unlikely colleagues.

Her hair tied back into a ponytail, Dr. Lin Ya-chu conducts an ultrasound for a pregnant patient in her consultation room. Hailing from the Puyuma village of Mulivelivek, she recently returned home to serve her community.

Lin Ya-chu
Taitung Christian Hospital physician
After leaving Taitung, I lost my cultural identity. Even though I was working hard elsewhere and had a decent job in a respectable position, ultimately, I couldn’t find a place where I felt truly at home.

Dr Huang Wen-chang standing beside Dr. Lin is just as excited she came back home to practice medicine. Many years ago, he was the one who brought her into the world.

Lin Ya-chu
Taitung Christian Hospital physician
There’s a very senior physician here. I looked up his name and found out he’s the one who delivered me. It’s incredible.

Huang Wen-chang
Taitung Christian Hospital physician
I’m so touched and excited. Being able to serve the people of Taitung together is a truly moving experience.

Dr. Huang said that when he first learned Dr. Lin was coming back to Taitung, he had already guessed at the coincidence, since he’s delivered most of the children in her home village. He also offered some advice to his young colleague.

Huang Wen-chang
Taitung Christian Hospital physician
Treat patients with dedication, enjoy life, and throw yourself into learning new things.

Lin Ya-chu
Taitung Christian Hospital physician
Serving in Taitung was always my goal. I already had that thought back when I was applying for university.

The OB-GYN department at Taitung Christian Hospital has a valuable new addition, as Dr. Lin fulfills her dream of returning to serve her community. Making history as Taiwan’s first coincidence of its kind, their story marks a heartwarming new chapter for their team.

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 #TaitungChristianHospital #OBGYN #heartwarming #Puyuma #coincidence

2026-10-14

Taiwan allies Paraguay and Belize face sanctions from China

On Monday, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced sanctions against politicians from two of Taiwan’s allies, Belize and Paraguay. Believing them to be “anti-China politicians,” their assets in China will be frozen and they will be prohibited from entering the country. Paraguay and Belize reiterated their support for Taiwan; with some officials even saying that these sanctions were “to be expected.” Taiwan has condemned such actions, as China has no right to interfere in sovereign nation’s internal affairs.

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung poses for a photo with a local government official in Poland. He’s visiting the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association to inspect the planned site for a technology park.

As Taiwan continues to build relations and cooperate with various countries, China is amping up its suppression tactics.

On Monday, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced sanctions against Paraguay’s Minister of Information, Gustavo Villate, and Belizean Foreign Minister, Francis Fonseca, labeling them as “anti-China politicians.” The two maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan, thereby against China’s interests. Their assets in China will be frozen and they will be banned from entering the country. Taiwan condemns this.

Cho Jung-tai
Premier
The People’s Republic of China has no right to interfere with the internal affairs of any sovereign state in the world, including Taiwan, and we will continue to work more strongly with our friendly nations and democratic allies.

Chen Ming-chi
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Taiwan’s global visibility is growing and I think such reactions will tire them. Will they impose sanctions on the whole world?

Paraguay and Belize both state that this “does not affect diplomatic relations with Taiwan.”During March, this year, Villate visited Taiwan to attend the Yushan Forum and even posed for photos with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. He said that Taiwan and Paraguay are promoting digital cooperation and the sanctions “were to be expected.”

Fan Yun
Lawmaker (DPP)
International relations are built on mutual respect and not political threats.
Imposing sanctions on politicians of these nations is essentially a form of transnational repression.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reassured that they would assist allies in dealing with suppression from China.

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

#chinasanctions #suppressions #taiwan #taiwanallies #paraguay #belize

2026-10-13

Locals band to help military as howitzer tire blows out

Earlier Tuesday, military trucks were rumbling down a road in Huatan Township in Changhua when one of them towing a howitzer was forced to come to a stop on the side of the road. Soldiers quickly got down from the truck, leading bystanders to believe a war was breaking out. Thankfully, this wasn’t the case. The Army truck was heading to Tianzhong Township for a handover mission when the misfortune struck and a tire on the towed howitzer blew out. Enthusiastic locals stepped up to the occasion and helped out using a forklift.

Four military trucks were making their way down a road in Changhua County, when the last truck unexpectedly malfunctioned.

Around 8 on Tuesday morning, a howitzer being towed along Zhongshan Road in Huatan Township, rolled to a stop on the side of the road, leaving locals perplexed about the cause. As the soldiers in the military truck got down to inspect the damage, they discovered the back tires were punctured.

Member of public
Saw the truck stop
A large truck was towing a cannon, it stopped just here on the side of the road, I thought it was a drill.

Member of public
Awestruck by cannon
I saw many soldiers getting down then I realized they were looking at the punctured tire. I was excited; it was my first time seeing big cannons. At first, I thought a war was breaking out.

The tire of the howitzer coincidentally blew out along the road where the campaign headquarters of Yeh Chi-yuan, the DPP candidate for Huatan Township mayor are situated. It stopped at the front doors startling the staff that came to open the building in the morning.

Yeh Chi-yuan
Huatan Township Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
On the one hand, we saw that the Army recovered quickly, and on the other hand, we felt relieved. We thought the National Army came to protect Huatan. The cannon is huge, it could make you famous overnight!

The military truck belonged to the Artillery Battalion of the 234th Mechanized Infantry Brigade under the 10 Army Corps. They were heading to Tianzhong Township carrying a 155mm howitzer for a combat readiness handover mission when a sharp object on the road rendered them stranded on the roadside. Fortunately, local residents swooped in for the rescue and deployed a forklift to help the soldiers who changed the tire within half an hour. This heartwarming incident shows the support that runs deep among the military and civilians.

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

#taiwanmilitary #howitzer #taiwanartillery #armycorps #nationalarmy #changhua

2026-10-13

Sudden sinkhole swallows crane wheel near construction site

A crane heading to a construction site had anything but a smooth ride to its destination after the ground collapsed under its wheels without a warning. The incident happened on Tuesday morning in New Taipei’s Zhonghe District. The sinkhole swallowed the crane’s front left wheel, leaving the vehicle tilting to one side. The hole itself was about 2m deep, with an opening of about 4m by 5m. Concrete trucks were immediately dispatched to the scene to fill up the cavity. Let’s hear more.

Nearby resident
Shocked at sinkhole
Just look at the gap! It’s so scary. I think it’s related to the metal plates, which are shaking all the time due to the construction. It’s so dangerous.

Chang Wei-chien
New Taipei City Councilor (DPP)
I’m worried about the sinkhole causing more damage. We hope the developer and relevant agencies will do something about this construction safety issue.

Chiu Ta-chang
Civil engineers association
The circular retainers may not have been waterproofed well enough. Since the basement has already been excavated to a depth of nearly 8m, it can’t really be considered safe. Repairs could take anywhere from one to two months.

A civil engineer says that the incident may have been caused by inadequate waterproofing in the retaining piles during the excavation of the basement. The process damaged an underground drainage culvert causing a leak that slowly washed away the ground beneath the road. The New Taipei Public Works Department has ordered construction to stop, and ordered ground-penetrating radar surveys of the surrounding roads. Work can only resume once the affected areas have been repaired and all safety checks are cleared.

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

#sinkhole #engineer #civilengineering #erosion #crane

2026-10-13

Taiwan Space Agency chief urges firms to enter the space industry

Wu Jong-shinn, the director general of the Taiwan Space Agency, has long had a passion for Taiwan to build its own rockets that can launch satellites into space. In a recent exclusive interview with FTV, he pointed to the importance of the space industry to Taiwan’s economy and national security and said Taiwan’s private sector could not afford to neglect this sector. Let’s find out more.

- My eyes light up whenever the topic turns to space or rockets.

Wu Jong-shinn, the director general of the Taiwan Space Agency, has announced a goal to launch a Taiwanese satellite into orbit using a Taiwanese rocket by 2034. However, this project could actually have been achieved sooner.

Wu Jong-shinn
Taiwan Space Agency director general
There was a project called the “Hapith” plan. Back then, the idea was for the space center to lead it and the Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to manufacture the rockets. I had set up a team for it—around a dozen professors. It was ultimately canceled, primarily due to the change of administration in 2008 when former President Ma Ying-jeou took office. His perspective was different, as rockets—especially orbital ones—are a highly sensitive technology, especially in the US. If Taiwan were to build them, the US would ask: “What are you planning to do with them?” Because they could easily become intercontinental ballistic missiles when no one’s looking. I was quite disappointed at the time, so I went back to the university.

Despite his past disappointments, there was never any talk of giving up. The US is poised to pass the Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act of 2025, which would institutionalize space cooperation between the two nations for the first time. Wu stresses this marks a crucial step forward.

Wu Jong-shinn
Taiwan Space Agency director general
Over the past five years, space has become a crucial component of national security infrastructure. Let me cite two examples: the US operation to apprehend the Venezuelan president and the bombing of a nuclear facility in Iran. Neither of these actions could have been carried out without space-based support.

Beyond national security, from a commercial perspective, the global space industry is projected to reach US$1.2 trillion by 2030, making it a fiercely contested market among nations.

Wu Jong-shinn
Taiwan Space Agency director general
The leading players in the electronics sector need to adopt a more visionary, long-term perspective and move quickly to invest in the space sector. If they are too slow to invest—considering that our Earth-based economy is primarily driven by OEM manufacturing—are we really going to limit ourselves to just being OEMs in space as well?

Driven by sheer tenacity and professionalism, Wu is pursuing his rocketry dream, striving to secure autonomous space capabilities and carve out a place in the cosmos.

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

#Taiwanspaceagency #spacerace #TASA #Taiwansecurity #Taiwansatellite

2026-10-13

Taiwan’s leading messaging app introduces AI assistant to chats

A top messaging app in Taiwan is adding an AI assistant to its chats. The company has dubbed the assistant as a “powerful” tool that connects users with every day services. In its initial rollout, the AI assistant will focus on dining, entertainment and shopping. For instance, it can compare prices when shopping for daily essentials and provide personalized recommendations when buying gifts for friends and family.

- You tell it what kind of gift you want to buy them, and the assistant will recommend which presents are good options and why.

Roger Chen
Messaging app Taiwan CEO
It’s kind of like having a person you can consult, and who can help you sort out options, recommend you items and get everything ready for you to make the final decision. The spirit of agentic AI is to help people complete tasks. It takes care of everything to simplify everything down to one decision. We believe this is a great application for the technology.

With AI applications becoming increasingly widespread, the messaging platform is turning AI into an all-in-one lifestyle assistant. The expansion is even taking things further, integrating four of its e-commerce services to help users find products and content, and even make restaurant reservations. Business accounts can also customize the AI’s role and integrate common service scenarios to respond to customers.

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

#ai #restaurant #messaging #tech #platform

2026-10-13

Red wine stain on NT$930k Hermes bag devolves into public showdown

A pricey Hermès handbag and a few drops of red wine have created a bitter war of words for all to see online. A woman surnamed Miao has been in a months-long feud with a high-end yakiniku restaurant in Taipei. She claims that a waiter at the restaurant spilled wine on her bag, which has a price tag of almost NT$1 million. The problem is, there is a hole in her story, as she didn’t actually see the moment that the stain occurred. The restaurant has shot back at her accusations online, releasing CCTV footage showing that Ms. Miao was in the restroom at the time the alleged accident happened. And while she was powdering her nose, no waiters entered the private room where she was enjoying a meal with her friends.

Premium Wagyu beef sizzles on the grill at this well-known yakiniku restaurant under the Fujin Tree Group. The chain specializes in high-end Japanese barbecue inspired by Tokyo’s upscale Ginza District. Foodies love it, but not a diner surnamed Miao, who left the restaurant anything but happy.

Ms. Miao claims a waiter spilled two or three drops of red wine on her luxury Hermès handbag, which she says has a value of NT$930,000. According to her, the restaurant offered to handle the issue, but four months later, her texts and phone calls remain unanswered. She says the problem is not the money she’d be getting from compensation, but the mishandling of the situation. But a major twist to the feud took place on Monday night, when the restaurant took to social media to shoot down her story.

Staff:
Were you there when the waiter
spilled wine on your bag?
Or were you in the restroom?

Ms. Miao:
I wasn’t there. I was in the restroom.
It’s when I got back to the table
that I saw the red wine stain
on my handbag.
Everyone was sitting there.
We were a group of four,
and the other three saw it.

Staff:
They saw our waiter spilling wine on your bag?

Ms. Miao:
No. They didn’t see it.

Staff:
I see.

Ms. Miao:
My bag got a red wine stain.

The restaurant released a recording of a conversation with Ms. Miao, and even posted CCTV screen captures to set the record straight. Ms. Miao was in the restroom for 3 minutes before returning to her seat. During her absence, no waiters entered the private dining room her party was in.

Staff:
May I ask what outcome
you are hoping for?
What are you thinking?

Ms. Miao:
I think you should refund me the cost of the bag.

Staff:
How much did the bag cost
when you bought it?

Ms. Miao:
NT$930,000.

Fujin Tree has released a statement explaining that there are no surveillance cameras in the private dining room, making it impossible to establish for certain how the stain occurred. It added a lawyer had been appointed to handle the case. With both sides standing by their own accounts, the dispute may very well end up in court.

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

#hermes #luxury #redwine #handbag

2026-10-13

Drunk 70-year-old drives scooter wrong way on freeway at night

Horns blared across Freeway No. 1, as terrified drivers came face-to-face with a nightmare on the highway: a scooter riding straight against traffic! The shocking scene unfolded on the northbound lanes in Taichung shortly after 6 pm on Monday. Drivers frantically honked to warn the rider, but he continued wobbling down the freeway as if he couldn’t hear a thing. Police finally pulled him over at Shengang, only to discover that the 70-year-old man was riding drunk. Let’s hear more.

- It’s a scooter!
- How did the scooter get on here?
What’s going on?
*Honk*
- What the hell?
- Scared me to death!

Chen Shih-hao
Police officer
The man, surnamed Chang and born in 1956, was riding a scooter against traffic on the freeway. A breathalyzer test came in at an alcohol level of 0.50mg/l. He is suspected of endangering public safety and our officers have issued a citation in accordance with the law and referred the case for investigation.

Mr. Chang was heavily intoxicated when he accessed Freeway No. 4 at the Houfeng Interchange. Dashcam footage later captured him on Freeway No. 1 as early as 6:05 pm. He was pulled over at 6:34, meaning he had been on the road for almost half an hour. Though he managed to avoid a disastrous crash out of sheer luck, he will have to face the legal consequences of drunk driving.

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

#dui #scooter #freeway #taichung #taiwan

2026-10-13

Experts skeptical of scam after customer finds steel-like balls inside crab

A Chiayi resident recently brought home a crab to steam. After cracking it open, they discovered 14 shiny objects inside that looked like steel balls. They posted photos online, drawing suspicion that the vendor purposefully added them to increase the weight. But both fishers and experts said that a crab would die if it were stuffed with steel, making the scam near impossible to pull off.

Autumn is the season for enjoying plump, delicious crab, straight from the market. But one crab lover recently found something strange inside their purchase.

After bringing it home to steam, they discovered 14 round objects around the gills and shell resembling small steel balls. The photos drew heated discussion online.

- No, I’ve never seen anything like it. My first thought was that it must be fake.

Hsu Shih-chien
Fisherman
I’ve been fishing for over 60 years. For there to be beads that large inside, they would have had to grow along with the crab. Its mouth is too small. If someone tried to force them in, the crab would have died.

This experienced fisherman noted that it’s anatomically impossible for a crab to swallow steel beads of this size. After seeing the photos, another expert said they could be a natural foreign body, which has been documented in scientific literature.

Hsu Mao-chieh
Dongshi Fish Market merchant
There have been extremely similar cases in the literature, although I’ve never actually seen one in person. Crustaceans have hemocyanin, which contains copper atoms. When the copper atoms are exposed, they can form that grayish-blue color. Still, it’s only something I’ve read about. I’ve never seen an actual specimen. To claim they’re steel balls is impossible.

Although some were suspicious that it was a trick by the vendor to add weight, the low success rate and likelihood of it killing the crab make it unlikely. The debate rages on whether this anomaly is the result of a rare biological mutation or human tampering.

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

#crab #seafood #biologicalanomaly #foodsafety #scam #crustacean

2026-10-13

Father designs pinwheels for Puma Shen at daughter’s request

A pinwheel maker in Changhua recently made 1,000 pinwheels to support Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen. Following his daughter’s request, Lee Chung-shih designed the custom pinwheels for Shen’s campaign, with an orange-and-white striped pattern and the campaign slogan in English and Chinese. Even though his daughter lives in Abu Dhabi, this doting father followed her wishes.

Pinwheel makers from Changhua show off their newest design: orange-and-white striped pinwheels with the Chinese “yang liu” and the English “young stream.”

- This means young, and this means stream. My daughter thought of it.
- Young stream.
- Yeah.

The pinwheel design was his daughter’s idea. She works as a music teacher in Abu Dhabi, but remains invested in politics back home and is supporting Puma Shen for Taipei mayor. She asked her father to make custom pinwheels for Shen, and he quickly agreed.

Lee Chung-shih
Pinwheel maker
She really admires Puma Shen. She said to me, “Dad, you can make pinwheels, that’s your specialty. You could make some and donate them as campaign merchandise.”

Lee Chung-shih’s wife
Pinwheel maker
Puma Shen really dotes on his daughter, and my husband is the same. He really adores her. Whatever requests she has, he’ll make sure it gets done. He really dotes on his daughter.

Puma Shen famously dotes on his daughter, and according to his wife, Lee is the same. The two often talk on the phone, staying close despite the distance.

- I listened to you and made your dream come true.
- Wow, that’s amazing.

Voice of Lee Hsin-ju
Lee Chung-shih’s daughter
I think our perspectives are really similar, especially regarding politics. We tend to judge people the same way. I’m very grateful to my dad for making this campaign merchandise for Puma Shen.

Puma Shen
Taipei mayoral candidate (DPP)
I’m really grateful to everyone for following this election.

Shen said he would accept the pinwheels as campaign merchandise in accordance with the Political Donations Act. One thousand of Lee Chung-shih’s pinwheels will spin around Taiwan, spreading support for Shen.

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

#pinwheel #politics #PumaShen #TaipeiMayor #youngstream #father #daughter #campaign

2026-10-13

Well-dressed pet goose joins owner on shopping trip

A pet goose was recently seen waddling through a department store in Taichung, dressed to the nines in shoes, a bib, and a diaper. The demure white goose calmly followed its owner through the store, earning the adoration of many shoppers. The goose’s name is Mimi, and she’s something of an online celebrity.

People shopping at a department store are sidetracked by an adorable goose waddling by.

The well-dressed white goose strolls through the store, calmly following its owner. A crowd gathered to admire the animal, and the owner didn’t hesitate to introduce her.

This was at a department store in Taichung. It turns out the goose, named Mimi, has garnered quite an online following. Now almost three years old, her owners have raised her since she was a chick. Because they speak to her every day, Mimi can now understand what they say and will even answer in her own way.

Mimi’s owner
Taichung resident
I’ve grown attached to her and she’s really well-behaved. If you treat her like family, she can feel it.

Mimi’s owner
Taichung resident
She always responds if she’s hungry or thirsty, or we tell her to wait, because they’re about as smart as a two or three-year-old.

Mimi is a white Roman goose, a kind commonly seen in Taiwan. Her family dresses her up every time they go out, putting on shoes, a bib, and a diaper.

Voice of Mimi’s owner
Taichung resident
It’s all custom-made. The shoes are about NT$450, and the bib is made separately. The whole outfit costs over NT$1,000.

These owners are happy to spend money on their darling goose, who they treat like another member of the family. They also run a social media page for Mimi, where fans can find cute clips and the latest updates from her life. Fans in Taichung might even run into her when they’re out shopping.

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

#goose #pet #departmentstore #shopping #Taichung #Mimi #whitegoose #adorable #outfit #ootd

2026-10-13

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

2026-10-12