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Poll puts Puma Shen in lead for Taipei 17 points ahead of Chiang

DPP Candidate Puma Shen has overtaken his KMT opponent by a mindboggling 17 percentage points the latest poll by the Taipei Trust in Democracy Association. The poll puts support rating for Shen at 50.3%, in contrast with 33.3% for Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an. In comparison with the previous poll by the association, Shen’s support shot up by 9.8 points, while Chiang’s crumbled by 8.4 points. Let’s hear more.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
The poll may say one thing, but victory depends on the ballots, on how everyone actually votes on Nov. 28. There’s still 39 days to go until Election Day, so public opinion may still rise and fall. We take very seriously whether our policies resonate with the public. That’s the most important thing for us.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
I would like to call on all Taipei citizens who’ve seen all we’ve achieved over the past four years, to show their support for our administration by coming out to vote on Nov. 28.

Chuang Jui-hsiung
DPP Caucus
Everything that Puma has achieved to this day is really impressive already, and we have very high expectations for him. His approach of engaging with citizens through dialogue will only win more and more people over with time.

Tai Li-an
Designed poll
The polls show an extremely strong response. One of the factors is the O’Shen wave that’s sweeping over Taipei, with huge support from pan-green voters.

Analysts say the skyrocketing popularity of Shen in recent weeks may have encouraged more responders to express their support for the DPP candidate. On the other hand, some others who perhaps supported Chiang preferred to keep quiet. Based on the current figures the Taipei Trust in Democracy Association estimates that Shen will walk away with 49.2% to 52.9% of the vote on Election Day, while Chiang could get between 46.9% and 49.9% of vote. With an overlap of just 0.7 percentage points, the margin between the two could be as wide as 6 percentage points.

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

#poll #taipei #election #pumashen #chiangwanan #oshenwave

Time：2026-10-20

最新消息 Latest News

Puma Shen madness spreads as other cities claim him for mayor

The O’Shen wave is taking over Taiwan. Singer and Golden Melody Award winner, Hsieh Ming-yu was performing on stage in Tainan when he suddenly called out, “Our mayor…” and didn’t expect to hear “Puma Shen,” shouted back from the audience. This urged the singer to respond and say, “We are in Tainan, so it’s Chen Ting-fei.” It seems Shen’s popularity has surpassed the borders of Taipei, spreading across all DPP campaigns. Some locals even printed out and distributed banners with Shen’s designs, drawing long queues.

Golden Melody Award winner, Hsieh Ming-yu was performing on stage when he suddenly blurted out something.

- Our mayor
- Puma Shen
- It’s Chen Ting-fei, this is Tainan.

Puma Shen is running for Taipei Mayor, but it seems that wherever you go, the phrase that comes after the chant, “Our mayor…,” is always followed by “Puma Shen!”

Hsieh Ming-yu
Golden Melody Award winner
I just wanted to test it out, to see if the O’Shen movement really is spreading, when I said, “Our mayor…” I was certain that I would say “Chen Ting-fei,” but I didn’t think that the audience below would in unison say, “Puma Shen.”

At first, the singer simply wanted to test out the power of the O’Shen wave, he didn’t realize that locals would join in and urge him to clarify. In fact, this clip has gone viral and even caught the attention of Chen Ting-fei herself, who replied saying, “This is Tainan,” with a question mark.

Chen Ting-fei
Tainan Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
While the O’Shen wave battles it out at sea, I, Chen Ting-fei, am fei-lying into the sky to battle it out up in the air. Land and sea unite.

Not only are the slogans catchy, but the O’Shen ribbons have become popular merch in Taiwan. Some stores in Tainan even printed their own and announced them online, they didn’t expect dozens of people to be eager to line up.

- I’ll tie this on my backpack, I’ve wanted this for so long!

- Vote for Shen to save Chiang.

- We will choose Chen Ting-fei, but I want to support Puma Shen

Taipei’s mayoral candidates have driven locals in the South into frenzy, as other candidates ride the bandwagon for popularity.

Hung Wei-chu
Head of marketing agency
I didn’t think today would be like this, we didn’t print enough. Those who came to pick them up can follow us on Instagram to support us.

The DPP caucus says the O’Shen Wave is lifting the support ratings for DPP candidates islandwide by 6%. The party says it’s hopeful for a turnaround in close races such as Keelung and Taichung. Meanwhile, races in Taitung, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu are heating up. With just a month left to elections, some officials discouraged Shen from travelling across Taiwan and instead urge candidates from other counties and cities to come to Taipei creating a unique crossover.

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

#沈伯洋 #OshenWave #洋流 #OshenWave #PumaShen #Tainan

2026-10-20

Aide tacks on campaign sticker on funeral guestbook

There’s a time and a place for campaigning, and a funeral service, is not it. With the local elections fast approaching, politicians are scrambling for exposure sometimes forget about good etiquette. A social media user whose grandmother recently passed away says that several candidates showed up to the funeral parlor to pay their respects. But one of them crossed the line. A campaign member of Cheng Chun-hung, who is running to represent Zhubei City, stuck a campaign sticker on the guestbook. Most unfortunately, his campaign slogan is “Please save us!” That infuriated her grieving grandchild, who scathingly slammed Cheng, saying their grandma couldn’t be saved anymore. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Finds sticker inappropriate
It’s disrespectful to the grieving family. They’re holding a funeral, everyone is mourning, and you go and stick a campaign sticker saying “Please save us”? That’s really inappropriate.

Member of public
Finds sticker inappropriate
It’s rude. Someone passed away, and you still put on the sticker saying “please save us.” That’s not nice.

Cheng Chun-hung
Zhubei candidate (KMT)
My assistant went to pay respects on my behalf, but didn’t have enough business cards. They had one of my campaign stickers on hand, so they put that on instead. It’s their first time helping with my campaign, and they weren’t familiar with the etiquette. It’s my responsibility to make sure my assistant understands these rules. I’d like to apologize to everyone.

Cheng Chun-hung posted a video to Facebook bowing to apologize for the sticker incident. But surprisingly, this isn’t the first time a candidate has been accused of campaigning at a funeral. Previously, an aide to KMT Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en was caught handing out business cards at a funeral, with a political donation account on the back. The move drew criticism, with some accusing the campaign team of being so money-hungry that they forgot about decorum.

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

#politics #bizarre #funeral #guestbook #campaign

2026-10-20

Taoyuan beef noodle shop criticized for giving firefighters free meals

A beef noodle restaurant in Taichung has offered free meals to firefighters since a factory fire in 2015 claimed the lives of six of their colleagues. The shop has given away hundreds of meals over the past decade. But one customer recently criticized the owner for favoring a particular profession. The comment upset the owner, who said that firefighters save lives and it’s their choice to support them.

A waiter serves a hot bowl of beef noodle soup, made fresh to order. It has large chunks of beef, as well as an egg, vegetables, and plenty of spring onion.

This beef noodle restaurant in Taichung’s West District is highly rated, but one review recently made the owner furious. He reposted the comment, saying: “Come read this garbage and see what kind of people society is raising.” The review said: “If there are discounts for certain professions, most people won’t want to buy it.” The owner fired back, saying: “This is my choice. Firefighters risk their lives to save you in an emergency. Offering them free meals is my business, and none of yours.” Others commented that people these days even get criticized for doing good deeds, while another said the person was just bitter.

Beef noodle restaurant owner
Firefighter supporter
I was upset when I saw the comment, more upset than seeing a one-star review. The deal for firefighters started after the 2015 fire in Xinwu District which claimed the lives of six young firefighters. I was a full-time dad caring for my one-year-old daughter then, so seeing that news made me very sad.

The owner promised to support firefighters after the six died saving lives in a 2015 fire. He can’t afford to donate a fire truck, but he could treat them to a bowl of noodles every once in a while.

Beef noodle restaurant owner
Firefighter supporter
Firefighters only need to show their badge, and I will treat them to a bowl of noodles. Sometimes the whole team comes.

Chou Chin-cheng
Taichung firefighter
Firefighters who have visited the restaurant with their IDs shared their experiences with their colleagues and gave the restaurant very positive feedback.

Firefighters thanked the restaurant for offering them free noodles. The owner has given away countless meals over the past 11 years. Despite the recent criticism, he said he would continue treating them as long as the restaurant remains open, so they know people appreciate their sacrifice.

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

#beefnoodles #Taoyuan #restaurant #firefighter #fire #deal #altruism #giveback

2026-10-20

Workers told to pay NT$6,000 and use annual leave for company trip

Many workers appreciate it when their companies organize trips for staff to mingle away from the workplace. But it’s anything but fun when the outing comes with conditions. One social media user says that their company organized a two-day trip to Hualien that was riddled with problems. First, the itinerary was nothing to write home about, but more importantly, each employee had to pay NT$6,000 out of pocket to attend. Those who didn’t attend were forced to take annual leave anyway, and those who had used up their PTO had to get unpaid time off. It sounds unfair, but is it legal? Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Thinks company should pay
- I think company trips should be paid for by the company.

Member of public
Doesn’t agree with conditions
- Two days one night in Hualien.
- Is it compulsory?
- If you don’t, you still have to request leave.
- That’s a little unreasonable.

Voice of Wang Chin-jung
Ministry of Labor
Article 38 of the Labor Standards Act states that the dates of annual leave are to be arranged by the employee. Employers cannot unilaterally schedule annual leave or force employees to take leave. If an employer violates these regulations, employees can file a complaint with their local city or county labor affairs bureau, or call the Ministry of Labor’s 1955 hotline to protect their rights. If the violation is confirmed, the employer can face a fine of up to NT$1 million.

Netizens criticized the lousy itinerary. The activities on Day 1 included: looking at the sea, going to a night market and sleeping at a hotel in the city. Day 2 was even more underwhelming, with the return home scheduled for after lunch. Altogether, the price for accommodation, transport and tickets to the sights was already close to NT$6,000 meaning savings were pretty low anyway. No wonder netizens said the company should at least foot the bill.

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

#trip #hualien #work #holiday #travel

2026-10-20

TaiwanICDF campus youth ambassadors return home

Taiwan is turning to its younger generation to help promote public diplomacy. Six university students selected as campus ambassadors by TaiwanICDF traveled to diplomatic allies Eswatini in Africa and St. Lucia in the Caribbean to witness Taiwan’s overseas aid efforts firsthand. Armed with cameras, they documented how international cooperation is making a difference in local communities, learning that aid is not just about giving, but creating a virtuous circle.

- Fish ponds have evolved into aquaculture farms. We’ve seen first-hand how locals have gradually introduced technology into their daily lives.

From aquaculture farms, fisheries, and women’s entrepreneurship in Eswatini…

- Some protect the health of the community, while others apply knowledge into their daily lives.

…to chronic disease prevention and digital technology training in St. Lucia. Six Taiwanese students became Campus Youth Ambassadors at two of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies. Now back in Taiwan, they shared their experiences on the ground.

Tsai Wan-yin
Eswatini Campus Youth Ambassador
The point of international cooperation is not just about providing assistance. It’s about the virtuous circle that is created when they pick up new skills.

Fan Chiang Tzu-chi
Eswatini Campus Youth Ambassador
I had no idea what pap was, but when we were there we saw it was a kind of corn porridge. We followed the local custom and ate with our hands.

These young ambassadors have evolved into newer selves, and their families all noticed. Especially Fan Chiang Tzu-chi’s mother, who recorded a video that brought her daughter to tears. The heads of the groups abroad even made a surprise conference call with the participants.

Yu Ting-hsuan
St. Lucia Campus Youth Ambassador
Real diplomacy and real exchanges don’t just happen in formal settings. Chatting and hanging out with locals is a form of international exchange in itself. Sometimes, you have to gather courage and step out of your comfort zone, try new things. The world is a bigger place than you might think.

Chen Ming-chi
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
The more important thing is working together with our partners to solve problems and cultivate local talents, so that the solutions are long lasting. As we say in our ministry, “Taiwan can help. Our partners can lead.”

Stephen Lee
TaiwanICDF Deputy Secretary General
Besides the 30th-anniversary events, we hope that when you return to your schools, you can share with everyone about the broader impact of Taiwan’s international cooperation efforts overseas.

Young people are using the power of storytelling to bring Taiwan’s overseas aid achievements into the public spotlight. Youth representatives from Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, who are set to visit Taiwan soon, also attended to show their support, ushering in a new chapter for public diplomacy.

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

#icdf #diplomacy #taiwan #eswatini #stlucia

2026-10-20

Old woman in wheelchair turns mountain road into racetrack

Some Keelung locals captured photos of a rather shocking sight n Zhonghe Road: an elderly woman racing down the mountain road on an electric wheelchair. The woman zigzagged through the middle of the road and even crossed over the double yellow lines. Not only was the road going downhill but it also had incredibly sharp turns, but this old lady expertly steered through it all without slowing down causing the vehicles around her to recoil in fear.

As vehicles drove along a mountain road, an electric wheelchair carrying an elderly woman suddenly appears. She drives unsteadily in the middle of the road and even on the double yellow lines.

This electric wheelchair navigated oncoming cars and motorcycles with ease and grace, but it caused traffic behind it to become cautious and fearful. Not only is this particular stretch of the road going downhill, it also has sharp turns. The old woman fearlessly drove without slowing down which made cars behind her slow down fearing a collision.

Member of public
Wary of older drivers
So dangerous. The speed of older drivers is unpredictable, sometimes fast, sometimes slow. If there are cars near them, they get nervous and don’t see.

Member of public
Disproves the driver
Is she not paying attention to cars behind her? She is just driving her own way, sometimes speeding up and crossing the road.

Although approved medical electric wheelchair and mobility scooters can be used on roads with relevant regulations, users are considered as pedestrians and must still abide by pedestrian traffic rules. They cannot drive in the middle of the lane and compete with cars and scooters for road space.

Lin Yen-hua
Chief of Fourth Precinct, Keelung City Police Bureau
Users of electric wheelchairs still must comply with relevant laws and regulations. They must use appropriate passage spaces according to regulations and not drive illegally on the road, which affects the safety of others on the road.

Although they can move fast, electric wheelchairs are not racecars and roads are not racetracks. According to regulations, violating the rules by riding an electric wheelchair will result in a fine of NT$500. This serves as a reminder to those who ride electric wheelchairs, that convenience must never come secondary to safety. Recklessly accelerating could endanger yourself and others on the road.

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

#racing #f1 #seniorcitizen #olddriver #keelung #taiwan

2026-10-20

Miaoli researchers breed disease-resistant honeybees

Climate change, pests, and diseases are threatening bee populations, and honey production is declining annually. But after five years of selective breeding, researchers in Miaoli have developed a new strain of bee that is resistant to disease and great at collecting nectar. These new and improved bees are better at keeping their hive clean and produce 30% more honey.

A beekeeper takes a frame out of the hive, covered in busy bees. Beekeepers harvest the honey they make, but with few flowers that produce nectar in the summer, they feed their bees sugar to keep them alive.

Beekeepers need healthy and strong bees. The Miaoli District Agricultural Research and Extension Station spent five years developing a super-bee by crossbreeding a colony with great hygiene with one that excels at collecting nectar. The resulting bees were both disease resistant and great at making honey.

The new bees’ hive-cleaning ability has improved from 70% to 90%, making them more resistant to disease, and they produce 30% more honey. The new strain is already working in two apiaries in Taichung and Tainan.

Huang Tzu-hao
Miaoli agricultural researcher
I hope this healthier strain of bee will be easier for keepers to raise and will prevent more diseases and pests.

Beekeepers are excited to try raising this new bee.

Hsu Chen-sen
Miaoli beekeeper
The success or failure of a hive, whether it does well or not, depends on the queen’s leadership. I also really hope to obtain the strain developed by the research station so we can try raising it.

Climate change has made it harder to raise bees, which has impacted honey production. Hopefully this new strain of disease-resistant bee bred by Miaoli researchers can help beekeepers keep their hives healthy and produce more honey.

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

#beekeeper #bees #honey #Miaoli #research #breeding #superbee #climatechange #disease #pests

2026-10-20

New sail-themed street art puzzles Lukang residents

A strange sight appeared recently over the streets of Lukang in Changhua County. Bright yellow triangles were strung up over Xinsheng Street, sparking some wild interpretations online. Some said they look like a row of shark fins drying in the sun, while others said they look like Doritos. The township office stepped in to clarify, saying they’re meant to symbolize “a thousand sails entering the port” from Lukang’s glory days. It’s just that the installation went viral before it was finished.

Rows of triangular yellow objects gently sway in the breeze, drawing attention from afar. As onlookers became more curious, people online started guessing what they could possibly be.

Lukang resident
Baffled by installation
I think they look like shark fins. It adds to the whole seafaring vibe here in Lukang.

Lukang resident
Baffled by installation
Shark fins? A bit like fish fins maybe.

Lukang resident
Baffled by installation
It’s a bit like eating noodles upside-down. It has that upside-down shape.

Imaginations are running wild as the locals bring in a touch of humor. One woman even said it looks like how people from Lukang eat noodle paste tipped out of a plastic bag. Others thought the curved shape and color make them look like shark fins or that famous triangular tortilla chip.

Lukang resident
Baffled by installation
It seems to me like the sail on a sailboat.

Lukang resident
Baffled by installation
Out-of-towners will think this is a cool spot, good for taking pictures.

Cheng Wei-chia
Lukang construction section chief
People have had so many creative interpretations of the design. It’s actually been pretty fun to see.

So how did this whole row of yellow triangles appear out of nowhere over a street in Lukang? It turns out they’re part of the township office’s light installation project. Each triangle is decorated with wave, sail, and seagull motifs.

Cheng Wei-chia
Lukang construction section chief
The initial design was based on a sailboat. We wanted to harken back to Lukang’s early days until now with “a thousand sails entering the port,” as the saying goes.

Since Lukang has historically been a thriving port town, the office used sail shapes to symbolize its glory days when the harbor was bustling with traffic. Crews are currently rushing to finish the installation to complete the scene. They never imagined it would go viral before it was even done!

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

#Lukang #Changhua #streetart #installation #sailboats #porttown #creative #viral

2026-10-20

Lee Yang pulls out from Asian Para Games event after badge downgrade

A credential downgrade has prompted Sports Minister Lee Yang to pull out of all official events at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games in Japan. Lee had initially been issued a badge that referred to him by his official title, Sports Minister. But he was later informed that it would be changed to “Guest.” The incident follows a controversy last month, in which event officials tried to exclude him from another ceremony at the Asian Games. Let’s hear more.

Xavier Chang
Executive Yuan Secretary-General
The Ministry of Sports has lodged a stern protest with the organizers. I hope that ruling and opposition lawmakers, as well as the general public will offer their support to Sports Minister Lee Yang, for looking out for all our athletes on the ground.

Chen Pei-yu
Legislator (DPP)
Could this downgrade open the door for further downgrades down the line? We hope that more international competitions will restore Taiwan’s rightful identity.

Fan Yun
Legislator (DPP)
It’s not the first time that the CCP has tried to obstruct us at sporting events in other countries. We will continue to fight for Taiwan’s right to take part in international competitions with the respect we deserve.

The Ministry of Sports has issued a four-point statement to protest the credential downgrade, and the lack of explanation and consultations. It also lodged a complaint with the Asian Paralympic Committee, urging organizers to keep sports free from external interference. At the incident last month, Lee was heading to the opening ceremony for the athletes’ village when he was blocked from entering the venue. He was ultimately let in, but only after more than one hour of negotiations.

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

#taiwan #japan #asiangames #asianparagames #sports

2026-10-19

ITRI teams up with 7 solar power companies in new industry alliance

As the world races toward net-zero emissions, demand for green energy is surging. The Industrial Technology Research Institute announced a new partnership with seven major domestic solar companies to establish the TBC Photovoltaic Technology Alliance, which aims to build a more resilient solar supply chain. Two key technologies were also unveiled: TBC solar cells and laser silver-coated copper technology, both designed to help upgrade Taiwan’s solar industry.

- By increasing the surface exposed to sunlight, it can generate more electricity.

This sleek all-black solar panel does not have the metal grid of traditional models. But,
how? The secret is on its back. The electrodes on new TBC solar cells have been moved to the rear, where they don’t block sunlight. It’s not just for looks. The increase in light-absorption surface areas pushes its power conversion efficiency to 25.5%.

Wu Chih-wei
MOEA Energy Administration
Though we may not be able to compete with more general-purpose applications volume-wise, if we boost efficiency and forge a new way forward, Taiwan’s industry would benefit tremendously.

The world is transitioning to net-zero carbon emissions and demand for green energy is growing. That’s why ITRI has teamed up with seven leading Taiwanese solar power companies to establish the TBC Photovoltaic Technology Alliance, bringing together companies in the upstream and downstream supply chains. The institute also unveiled its self-developed laser-assisted silver-coated copper electrode technology, to reduce the industry’s consumption of costly silver. This tech reduces cell production costs by 8%, and is expected to generate NT$200 million output value annually.

Lin Fu-ming
ITRI green energy laboratories
By using our R&D platform and their equipment, materials and expertise, we hope to develop the next generation of technologies.

Taiwan’s solar industry, government, academia and research institutions are joining forces. With high-efficiency, homegrown green energy tech, they aim to capture the lucrative market opportunities as the world pushes toward net-zero emissions.

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

#solarpanel #energy #greenenergy #netzero #emissions

2026-10-19

Puma Shen proposes post-election events to hear out civil servants

Do you often complain about your job? Well, Taipei mayoral candidate Puma Shen wants to hear all about it. Over the past few weeks, the DPP politician has garnered large crowds at his soapbox pop-ups all over the city, engaging with locals and hearing their rants and qualms. Now, Shen plans to start a new season of the events if he gets elected, dedicated to teachers and civil servants. Titled “Mr. Mayor, I’m done!” the events would be a place for public employees to air their grievances. Supporters are loving the idea, and healthcare and social workers say they would love a chance to speak up too. Let’s hear more.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
You would be able to just show up, like the soapbox events, and tell me why you’re done with your job. Tell me what problems you face. We then make a compilation and resolve it in 100 days. That’s what’s called taking responsibility. In the original series, the “Mayor, Listen Up!” soapboxes, the goal was to hear all sorts of opinions. In the future, we can get people like nurses or social workers, people in professions with shortages and with really stressful jobs. That’s our main goal to start off with.

Huang Yi-chung
High school teacher
People currently employed have more credibility, because they experience the issues first-hand. There are many of us struggling in Taipei. Regardless of political affiliation, if you can solve the problems plaguing government employees and teachers, it would be an immense act of merit. The direction is good, but we need to figure out the details. Like for example, since these civil servants and teachers are still at their jobs, how can they feel safe to speak up openly about the difficulties they face?

The DPP candidate says the top priority is teachers and civil servants, as they face extreme pressure at work and their jobs affect children as well. Shen previously proposed five policies to tackle understaffing at government agencies. They include a review of workplace conditions, flexible working hours, bigger and more flexible bonuses, upgrades for employee assistance programs and introducing AI teams to reduce workloads.

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 #taipei #work #policy #politics

2026-10-19

Demolition optical illusion scares drivers on highway

Locals driving along National Highway 1 noticed a building being demolished near Yongkang section in Tainan. What stood out was the structure was tilting dangerously towards the highway as if it were about to fall completely. Further investigation revealed a demolition was underway and in accordance with urban rezoning regulations. The owner emphasized that the building may have seemed as though it was toppling over due to an optical illusion. The upper structure has been successfully demolished.

Some drivers on the National Highway 1 noticed a terrifying scene.

Member of public
Concerned about building
It’s about to fall, will we be affected?

Member of public
Warns about demolition
Better get out of the way, if it collapses, it will crush you. What if you get caught under?

Locals saw a chilling sight driving along the highway in Tainan. A large semi-demolished building loomed over the roads looking like it might topple over any moment. The upper structure that terrified locals has now been completely demolished and the remaining structure as well.

Construction worker
Working on demolition
It’s still a bit far from the national highway. When it was being demolished, there was a tilt which then seemed dangerous, it’s just a perspective issue.

This is an old large-scale agricultural and livestock processing plant, which is getting demolished due to the Tainan Government initiative, “Yongkang Station North Industrial Special Zone Land Readjustment Project,” as it is located within the area planned for public facilities. The demolition will proceed from the top of the building downwards maintaining compliance with safety protocol.

Voice of Yang Yi-ming
Livestock and food processing plant
The procedure is to demolish downwards, it’s not like cutting down trees. The steel structure and iron supports have already been removed, so there’ no need to worry.

In June of this year, the city government held a groundbreaking ceremony for the industrial zone, marking another milestone in construction projects in Yongkang. Although the government reiterates they will expedite the process, it also stressed that safety remains a priority and will be strictly controlled throughout the process.

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

#nationalhighway #tainan #demolition #buildingstructure #yongkangdistrict

2026-10-19

Man calls police in terror after being chased by 19 thirsty goats

In Mituo District, Kaohsiung, a man called 110 for help, saying he was being stalked by a herd of goats. Police searched for 40 minutes before finally discovering 19 goats enjoying the shade in the courtyard of a nearby Earth God temple. After contacting the owner, they found that the man was carrying a bucket of water, and the herd was just looking for a drink.

Surveillance camera footage shows a man holding a bucket while walking up an incline, shadowed by a herd of goats. But he isn’t their owner. He was being pursued. The frightened man scrambled to dial 110 for police assistance.

- How do you think the goats got out?
- I don’t know. Maybe their pen wasn’t latched properly.

The footage was taken along a country road in Kaohsiung’s Mituo District. Fearing that these goats might dart onto the main road and cause an accident, police searched for 40 minutes before finding 19 goats resting in the shade at a nearby Earth God temple.

Local farmer
Goat owner
After I finished up at their pen, I came down to take them out to graze, but they were all gone. I searched all over here and by the graveyard. I searched for two whole hours.

On that day, the owner had taken his 22 goats to the canal alongside their pen to graze, but 19 of them strayed off course. Exhausted and parched under the scorching sun, they spotted the man carrying a bucket and followed him.

Local farmer
Goat owner
I was about to give up and head home hoping for a miracle, when a friend called to ask if I had lost my goats. He said the police were waiting for me, so I rushed over to get them.

Fortunately, once hydrated, the goats obediently trotted home in single file behind their owner’s scooter as police kindly escorted them, bringing a heartwarming close to this “lost lamb” scare.

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

#goats #Kaohsiung #cuteanimals #escape #farmer #police

2026-10-19

Imposter teachers for 6 years at public schools with fully forged documents

“Fake it until you make it,” must have been the motto of Mr. Chiang, a fake teacher in Pingtung. For six years, the imposter taught at schools in Pingtung, Tainan and Kaohsiung, and even cleared admission exams for faculty. But it turns out it was all a sham. The man had spent NT$30,000 on fake bachelors and masters diplomas, forged teaching licenses and even a falsified clinical psychologist certificate. The scam only came to light after the Ministry of Education requested him to supply additional documents. He’s been sentenced to two years in prison for forging official seals and documents. Let’s hear more.

Voice of Cheng Chih-lung
Elementary school principal
Our faculty was shocked. I’ve been in this profession for such a long time and never had I ever heard about someone falsifying their academic credentials. It all seemed normal while he was at our school.

Chang Yu-chin
Elementary school principal
Our admin staff asked him for more documents, but he kept putting it off. In the end he told us that he had other career plans and he quit.

Yang Tsung-han
Pingtung District Court Deputy Spokesperson
He has been sentenced to four to six months in prison for each of the offenses of forging official documents and forging official seals, with a combined sentence of two years in prison.

The photograph shows Mr. Chiang holding up a banner saying “You’re amazing!” He received to celebrate his new position as a school counselor at an elementary school. But this real-life Taiwan version of the con man movie “Catch Me If You Can” has finally come to an end. Police arrested Mr. Chiang at his home in March this year, and found many forged certificates in his residence. Pingtung County’s Education Department says it will seek to recover Chiang’s illegally obtained salaries once the verdict becomes final.

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#conman #forged #teacher #fakeituntilyoumakeit #imposter

2026-10-19

Man turns public restroom into a temporary lodging

A man has turned a public restroom into a free hotel, with all the amenities. Locals in Taichung noticed that the a man had moved into the accessible restroom at Wenxin Forest Park. He brought a mosquito racket, a charger, and personal belongings, and resided there for over a month, treating it like his home. The local neighborhood chief notified the police after fruitless attempts, after which the man was evicted.

- Hurry up
- I am not homeless

Police in Taichung received a complaint about an accessible restroom in a park and discovered a man had turned a public toilet into his home.

- I don’t come every day, it’s been colder recently.

Only after being urged by the police did the man begin to pack his belongings and leave, with a mosquito racket, slippers, charger, and several bags, it really seemed as though he had moved into the restroom and settled.

Voice of local
Attempted to enter toilet
The toilet was unlocked, I went and knocked on the door, and checked if it would open. When it opened, a man very aggressively said, “I am sleeping, what do you want?”

The man was seen at Taichung’s Wenxin Forest Park’s disabled restroom. Inside the restroom, there is an exhaust fan, power outlets, a crib, and free wifi, all crucial amenities.

Wu Pi-hsun
Tienhsinli Borough Warden
When he saw the police he probably got a shock, because only the police have public authority. When the neighborhood chief knocked on the door, he ignored it and any other advice you give him, making the community uneasy.

Wenxin Forest Park used to have security, but since July this year, they were removed, giving this man an opportunity to move in to the restroom. The Taichung City Social Affairs Bureau received the complaint and went to investigate but did not find the man. After an investigation, they found the man is not registered as a homeless person. The Bureau will continue to visit and care for him, and relevant departments will also increase the frequency of patrols to prevent squatters from using toilets.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#homelessness #socialhousing #taiwanhousing #rentcrisis #taichung

2026-10-19

Police officer carries trapped woman down six floors

A fire broke out recently at a hotel in Taichung’s North District after a fuse box let out sparks, setting off alarms throughout the building. When an 82-year-old woman had trouble taking the stairs, a responding police officer rushed to carry her down all six floors on his back.

An elderly woman on the sixth floor of this building had no way to get down the stairs. Without thinking twice, a police officer rushed up to get her.

- Someone needs help. Her mother has mobility issues and needs to be carried.
- The sixth floor?
- Yes.

In the room he discovered a woman in her 80s feeling dizzy and barely able to move. The officer crouched down to gather her on his back and returned to the stairwell.

- Let her lean on my shoulder first.
- Take it easy.
- Alright, lean onto my shoulder and hold on tight.
- We’re walking. We’re going down now.

A fire recently broke out at this hotel in Taichung’s North District, caused by a sparking fuse box. The hotel evacuated according to code, but an elderly woman needed help.

Huang Yu-sheng
Wenzheng Station deputy police chief
Officer Chiu sprinted up to the sixth floor without hesitation, and carried the woman on his back down to safety. He then handed her over to paramedics, averting disaster.

Step by careful step, the officer carried the woman down six flights of stairs to deliver her to the paramedics. Fortunately, her condition wasn’t serious, much to the relief of her worried family.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#police #hero #fire #heartwarming #Taichung #elderly #piggybackride

2026-10-19

Pizza makers experiment with sweet-savory Halloween concoctions

Halloween isn’t here yet, but pizza chains are already jumping on the chance to let their imaginations run wild. This year, they’re pushing the boundaries even further with creative designs as well as flavor pairings that defy all expectations. Another chain incorporated a beloved snack food through a crossover collaboration. With holiday exclusives and inventive new ways to eat, these rival brands hope their offerings will entice customers to try something new.

Seasonal volcano pizzas are back! This time, pastel purple taro oozes from the crater in the center, drizzled with rich cheese and coconut milk. This combo of sweet and savory will take your taste buds to the limit, just in time for Halloween.

Member of public
Pizza taste tester
If you treat it like a dessert, I think the flavor is pretty nice. But if it’s your main meal, it’s probably a bit too sweet.

Wang Fu-kai
Marketing expert
Offerings like this taro volcano pizza are meant to pique customers’ curiosity for quirky and outlandish flavors.

This other option is going for a bolder flavor. The crater in the middle is filled with a fiery red spicy cream sauce to give it a spooky Halloween vibe, topped with a cheesy spiderweb and juicy burger patties.

Another chain took a different tactic by launching a collaboration with the beloved Science Noodles brand of instant ramen. Customers can sprinkle the dried noodles over their pizza themselves, giving it an exciting textural clash.

Member of public
Pizza taste tester
It gives it another layer of texture.

Fei Qi
Culinary expert
The noodles give both an innovative touch, and a nostalgic nod to childhood. Whether customers will like it or not, I think time will give us the answer.

From spooky Halloween pizzas to an instant noodle collab, these rival brands are deploying every trick in the book to seize holiday business, giving their customers more fun choices for their Halloween parties.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#pizza #Halloween #creative #ScienceNoodles #tarovolcano #oddity

2026-10-19

Hotel sources ingredients from local farmers for new fine dining options

The Kaohsiung Agriculture Bureau has partnered with a five-star hotel in the city to procure local produce for its restaurants. By the numbers: six chefs from its five main restaurants personally visited rural farms to incorporate 11 premium local ingredients, including rice from Meinong and grouper from Yongan, into nine exclusive new dishes. Just by visiting the hotel, foodies can enjoy the best Kaohsiung has to offer, from its mountains to the sea.

Holding a live grouper caught straight from the water, this five-star executive chef is visiting a fish pond in Kaohsiung’s Yongan District to personally select the finest ingredients.

The team also went in search of loofah, rose, and other premium produce from around the city. Their aim is to use them in new, creative dishes for the hotel.

Chih Yi-ming
Hotel Chinese restaurant executive chef
We went out at 4am to watch the harvest. As they prepared to lower the nets, the sun still hadn’t come up. We waited there. Using a Cantonese approach, we used loofah in a grouper rice stew. This dish has about six ingredients sourced locally from Kaohsiung, and uses two methods of cooking the rice.

The Kaohsiung Agriculture Bureau joined forces with a five-star hotel to craft special dishes with ingredients sourced the traditional way, straight from the farmers themselves, allowing the chefs to personally ensure quality by venturing to the source. These 11 high-quality local ingredients are being served at all five major restaurants under the hotel’s brand.

Peng Yu-hsiang
Hotel general manager
Using one ingredient across multiple dishes saves on food waste and maximizes its versatility. We’re offering various combinations across our 10 dining venues, allowing our guests to experience a wide array of fine dining under one roof.

Yao Chih-wang
Kaohsiung Agriculture Bureau director-general
I believe this is an ideal model for collaboration, and we hope this partnership will endure for a long time. It encourages young farmers to work hard at producing top-quality produce. We at the bureau will assist with finding ingredients for these culinary creations, and with introducing them to customers.

The Agriculture Bureau hopes to keep this procurement model going, inviting more top hotels to join in. With this strategy, foodies don’t have to go far to enjoy the bounty of Kaohsiung’s land and sea.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#Kaohsiung #farmtotable #fivestarhotel #restaurant #chef #locallysourced #grouper #finedining

2026-10-19

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

2026-10-16