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VP Hsiao back in Taiwan after 3-day visit to Italy for democracy forum

Taiwan’s Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is back home after a whirlwind three-day visit to Italy, where she took Taiwan’s message of democracy and freedom directly to Europe. Speaking at the Ventotene Forum, Hsiao stood firm against China’s growing military and gray-zone pressure, declaring that Taiwan will continue to walk alongside the world. Her speech won strong support from European figures, but also clearly struck a nerve in Beijing, which protested her appearance. Now back in Taiwan, Hsiao says the trip sends a clear message that Taiwan will not be intimidated.

After a visit to the Island of Ventotene in Italy, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim arrived safely back in Taiwan in the early hours of Monday.

Hsiao Bi-khim
Vice President
With my visit, I wanted to send a strong message: No matter the difficult situation we may be in, Taiwan will continue to walk alongside the world. At the Ventotene Forum, I took part in dialogues about freedom, democracy and peace. That is no coincidence. Freedom is the language we all speak, and peace is the aspiration we all have.

Hsiao stressed that no matter their size, the islands of Taiwan and Ventotene should be treated with equal amounts of respect.

Hsiao Bi-khim
Vice President
Taiwan is facing increasing pressure, due to military moves and gray-zone tactics. But just like our friends in Europe, we remain committed to our free and democratic way of life, while striving to preserve regional peace and prosperity.

Vice President Hsiao and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung made a quick three-day visit to Italy, where they took part in the Ventotene European Conference for Freedom and Democracy, at the invitation of European Parliament Vice President Pina Picierno. In her speech, Hsiao stressed Taiwan’s determination to defend democracy and freedom amid China’s growing military threats, and described Taiwan’s resilience as that of a “War Cat.” Her speech won widespread applause from international participants, but also ruffled feathers in Beijing.

Mao Ning
China Foreign Ministry spokesperson
China has lodged serious protests with Italy and the EU side on the “Taiwan independence” politicians’ attendance at the conference in Italy.

Wang Ting-yu
Lawmaker (DPP)
China was shocked to learn what was happening. They dispatched personnel to disrupt the event and monitor what was happening at the forum. But security officers from the countries involved intervened and ordered them to leave. This all goes to show the close ties between Taiwan and several EU countries. Of course, this is a big diplomatic breakthrough and victory for Taiwan.

President Lai Ching-te shared the post of Hsiao’s arrival on his Facebook, adding that it was Taiwan’s right to engage with the world. He stated that Taiwan would continue to pursue opportunities for exchanges and collaboration internationally, so that the world can see Taiwan.

#italy #ventotene #taiwnanews #diplomacy #蕭美琴

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Time：2026-09-14

最新消息 Latest News

MQ-9B drone takes off for first test flight in Hualien

The MQ-9B drone that Taiwan procured from the US has finally taken to the skies for a test flight in Hualien. The drone was delivered in June, and cost NT$1.6 billion. Now, after three months of preparation and equipment updates, it is ready to roll. Analysts say the new addition will significantly boost Taiwan’s high-altitude surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Let’s hear more.

Su Tzu-yun
Institute for National Defense and Security Research
We finally saw footage of the MQ-9B on a test flight today. The drone has a special cone-like structure at the bottom. That’s the search radar. That allows it to monitor the Taiwan Strait while flying in Taiwan’s airspace. It gives our military another set of far-seeing eyes.

Wang Ting-yu
Lawmaker (DPP)
It shows that our personnel has been trained up to the necessary standard. That includes the personnel operating the ground station, ground control and everyone involved before and after the drone was delivered. We can make technological breakthroughs, and international cooperation is gaining momentum. The only thing we’re missing is a budget from the Legislative Yuan that can support all this.

The drone combines surveillance and strike capabilities, making it capable of detecting objects as small as rafts and inflatable boats. It has a maximum range of 6,000km and can stay airborne for up to 28 hours with a light payload. With a payload capacity of 1700kg, it can be equipped with advanced sensors, and laser guided bombs. The US Air Force has confirmed that the deal for four MQ-9Bs plus logistics totaled US$457 million, or about NT$15 billion. Two of the drones have already been delivered, with the remaining two expected to reach Taiwan in 2027.

#drone #defense #uav #surveillance #usairforce

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2026-09-14

High schooler saves the day after school bus sideswipes car!

A school bus driver in Chiayi lost control of his vehicle while driving 20 students home. Despite experiencing a stroke, he continued driving and caused damage along the road. He sideswiped cars and drove against traffic and even wrecked the bus’ side view mirrors. Luckily, a student realized something was wrong and turned off the bus’ engine at a red light, allowing all the students to disembark safely.

- High blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease?
- Yes
- Which one do you have?
- Heart disease
- Do you have high blood pressure?
- No

Paramedics arrived at the scene to find the school bus driver lying limp and weak on the ground; moments earlier, he had been driving students home after school. He suddenly fell ill, prompting terrified students on board to call emergency services for help.

Student involved
Senior High School in Chiayi
The collision happened right after leaving the school, and there were minor scrapes along the way as well.

Students recalled that shortly after driving out of the school gate, the driver sideswiped a white sedan parked by the roadside. After apologizing, he drove off and veered into the oncoming lane, crashing directly into a street lamp, shocking nearby residents.

Member of public
Witnessed the crash
The driver seemed to be experiencing a problem or a medical issue. Both of the side mirrors were missing, as the vehicle hit a car and other things.

Member of public
Witnessed the crash
We were inside when we heard a huge crash, the street lamp’s bulb fell off from the impact of the bus and rolled under the wheels.

The bus driver hadn’t been feeling well, experiencing symptoms resembling a stroke. Paramedics later confirmed it was a case of heat exhaustion. The driver forced himself to continue driving despite his condition. He sideswiped cars and a streetlamp, managing to drive 1.7 km before stopping at a red light. An alert student rushed to the driver’s seat, turned off the engine and guided the other students off the bus.

Student involved
Senior High School in Chiayi
I noticed his body going limp and I felt that something was very wrong, so I turned off the bus’ engine. I was nervous at the time, but I wanted to react before something life-threatening happened.

Mr. Hung
Senior High School Secretary
Fortunately, this student performed a heroic act and prevented a tragedy.

None of the students on board were injured and were promptly picked up by another school bus. The school gave the student a red envelope containing NT$200, commending him for his bravery and for preventing a serious crisis.

#schoolbus #trafficaccident #chiayi #highschool #student

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2026-09-14

Badminton champ tapped as ‘anti-bribery’ ambassador for upcoming election

As the November election approaches, the Qiaotou District Prosecutors’ Office has invited world badminton champion Tai Tzu-ying to serve as their anti-bribery ambassador. The sports star said her father and prosecutors from the office have long supported the sport. As ambassador, she likened her signature smash to her determination to stamp out election bribery, calling on people to treat elections like sporting competitions where fair play is fundamental.

Taiwan’s badminton superstar Tai Tzu-ting leads officials through a series of stretches in preparation for picking up their rackets.

- Hold it behind you and turn to the side. Don’t block your face with your hand, since we’re taking photos.

With the November elections fast approaching, the Qiaotou District Prosecutors’ Office teamed up with their counterparts in Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Penghu to invite Tai as their anti-bribery ambassador. She got the invite since she’s a Kaohsiung native, and because her father and officials at the office are long-time badminton fans.

Tai Tzu-ying
Badminton champion
During matches, what we value most is fairness. So I think elections are the same. Candidates shouldn’t rely on anything other than their own abilities, and shouldn’t buy votes.

The office also released a promotional video for its official anti-bribery Line account, where the public can easily report unfair election activities.

Kuo Ching-tung
Qiaotou District chief prosecutor
The four prosecutors’ offices in southern Taiwan all work together as a single unit. A powerful smash in badminton is as strong as our crackdown against vote-buying. Through Line—the messaging app that everyone uses the most—anyone can report election misconduct.

As ambassador, Tai called on everyone to treat elections like a sporting competition: free and fair. If anyone spots suspected vote buying, they should report it immediately to help safeguard Taiwan’s democracy together.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#election #votebuying #TaiTzuying #badminton #bribery #QiaotouProsecutorsOffice #freeandfairelections

2026-09-14

Dinosaur-themed healthy food market will delight kids and adults

A dinosaur-themed market will be held on Sept. 18–20 at the Shuei Jiao She Cultural Park in Tainan. While it’s designed to immerse visitors in a prehistoric atmosphere, which will delight kids, delicious food is also a must. The event features specialty snacks from all over Taiwan, such as dried mullet roe, squid and plenty of candies. Timed to coincide with the 2026 Tainan Shopping Festival, the theme of this market is LOHAS: Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability. Let’s find out more.

The table is piled high with candies, cookies, and all kinds of snacks; the other side is also laden with dried goods—such as dried fruit, squid, and mullet roe—all sourced from specialty vendors across Taiwan.

Hu Shen-ho
Chair of national federation of commercial districts
We welcome all our good friends to come enjoy great food, go shopping, and experience the hottest dinosaur game—Combat of Giants: Dinosaurs. Special guests will also be joining us on-site to share in the fun with everyone.

The 2026 Tainan Commercial District "LOHAS Shopping" event is being held this year at the Tainan Shuei Jiao She Cultural Park. The market brings together specialty vendors from across Taiwan to display their wares and sell them, offering visitors a chance to enjoy great food and shopping; however, the event’s biggest highlight is its dinosaur theme, designed to instantly transport attendees back to prehistoric times.

Chiang Ting-hsing
Deputy chair of national federation of commercial districts
We specifically chose Tainan City this year because the 2026 Tainan Shopping Festival is currently underway. Every year, the festival draws enthusiastic participation from tourists who make significant purchases; furthermore, the prize lineup is impressive—spending just NT$50 gives you a chance to win great prizes.

In addition to a fun-filled market, there are lucky draws for shoppers. Come to Tainan’s Shuei Jiao She Cultural Park on Sept. 18, 19 and 20 to experience the dinosaur-themed market —featuring great food, shopping, and entertainment.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#LOHASfoods #Taiwansnacks #Tainanevents #Tainanshoppingfestival #shueijiaosheculturalpark #Tainanactivities #Tainantourism #kidsentertainmment #dinosaurgames

2026-09-14

Taiwan airlines updates fleet with brand-new Airbus A321neo

There’s nothing quite as nice the smell of a new car, except perhaps the smell of a new plane. A domestic airline has added a brand-new jet to its lineup, an Airbus A321neo. The state-of-the-art aircraft took off from Kaohsiung for its maiden flight on Monday. Its destination: Penghu.

The passenger plane was greeted with a water salute to mark the occasion. Each passenger was also given a limited-edition boarding card to keep as a memento of this new chapter for air transport in Southern Taiwan. The A321neo features a total of 235 comfortable seats in a high density arrangement. The model is now operating domestic routes within Taiwan, but there are plans to deploy the plane on international routes to Okinawa and Takamatsu, bringing new options to residents in the south.

#airbus #airplane #travel #taiwantravel #iloveplanes

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2026-09-14

Taitung cameraman captures rare astronomical phenomenon on camera

On Sunday, surveillance cameras at the Taitung National Park Administration captured a rare astronomical phenomenon, a massive red jet shooting up into the sky. This is known as an upward discharge, which typically connects at the top of the thunderstorm as electrical charges are released into the upper atmosphere. Although it lasts only a few milliseconds and is a rare occurrence, it was caught on camera.

The gigantic red jet shoots across the night sky, resembling fireworks. Although it was just a flash, it was caught on camera in Taitung.

Chen Hung-tsung
Taitung County Councilor
It looked like someone set off fireworks. All of a sudden, there was an incredibly bright light. It looked like a red umbrella. Seeing this in an open space is a strange thing. We were all quite puzzled.

Member of public
Witnessed the Gigantic Jet
It was very strange. I am not sure why it happened. It just suddenly appeared and turned red. I thought something was falling from the sky.

This beautiful astronomical phenomenon is a rare upward lightning discharge. It lasts only a few milliseconds and is only visible from hundreds of kilometers away from a thunderstorm.

Voice of Tsai Yu-ming
Taipei Astronomical and Meteorological Station
This brief phenomenon in the upper atmosphere is likely a “gigantic jet.” Intense convection within the cumulonimbus clouds creates an electrical charge that is discharged upwards. This discharge channel can extend as high as 70 to 90 km, and results in high-energy electrons colliding with nitrogen molecules, causing them to emit red light.

This is a rare phenomenon that is difficult to see, so capturing it on surveillance footage is truly incredible.

#giganticjet #redlightning #taitung #nightsky #astronomy

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2026-09-14

Deep-sea fishing boat almost tramples group of free divers

A group of divers enjoying the sea had a terrifying experience in Liuqiu, where they almost got trampled by a rogue fishing boat. The group was exploring the marine life outside Dafu Fish Port, a well-known diving paradise on the island. They thought they were safe, as they had actually put up a diving flag to alert others about their presence. But the fishing vessel ignored it and came as close as 2m away from them despite their yells asking the sailor to stop. Let’s hear more.

- Move!
Move out!
We have a diving flag.
Keep some distance!
- It was so close.
The fishing boat is all the way here.
It almost hit us.

Chi Yen-ju
Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area
We have set up a designated area for free diving there, and put up warning signs for operators, tourists and fishers.

Wu Ping-yu
Taiwan Freediving Development Association
The divers marked their spot with the flag, in accordance with the law. Vessel operators should understand what the flags signify, as they are internationally recognized.

On a social media post, a driver claimed that the ship lingered in their vicinity, despite backing away. The vessel appeared to be a deep-sea fishing boat, which has raised questions about why it was operating so close to the shore, and putting diver’s lives at risk. Staff at the scenic area say the incident will be reported and investigated, to determine why the ship was sailing in the area. They also reminded fishing vessels to stay away from diving zones to ensure the safety of people engaging in water activities.

#diving #freediving #vacation #fishing #holiday

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-09-14

Truck selling delicious seasonal produce travels all over Taiwan

The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a truck showcasing Taiwanese seasonal produce and other various delicacies to raise awareness of all the delicious ingredients Taiwan has to offer. It is roving all over the island and consumers can buy fresh produce from the truck on the spot. At a recent promotional event, Minister of Agriculture Chen Junne-jih acted as a sous chef, helping a chef to transform some of these offerings, such as bananas and eels, into tasty meals. Let’s join them.

A popular cheerleading squad performs an energetic song and dance routine on stage as a mobile food truck that gives a taste of Taiwan officially hits the road.

Minister of Agriculture Chen Junne-jih acts as a sous chef, helping to prepare ingredients. He has teamed up with culinary expert Ah-Fang to cook dishes. Together, they transform fresh seasonal ingredients, such as bananas and eels, into delicious delicacies.

Chen Junne-jih
Minister of Agriculture
We are using our traveling mobile produce truck to showcase our domestic produce—allowing consumers to not only see these seasonal products, but buy and taste them on the spot. The seasonal ingredients featured in the truck will also be available at local markets.

Chen emphasized that the mobile produce truck not only allows consumers to see fresh, seasonal ingredients directly from the source, but also makes it easy for them to buy them.

Chen Junne-jih
Minister of Agriculture
The mobile produce truck will tour all over Taiwan, including rest stops along national highways. You’ll definitely see it in the future, in areas with large crowds, like the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

The Ministry of Agriculture is embracing innovation and creative marketing so that all Taiwanese people can enjoy the deliciousness of local Taiwanese produce.

#Taiwancuisine #Taiwanproduce #Taiwanagriculture #Taiwanfood

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2026-09-14

Woman hangs wet clothes to dry in the middle of a busy roundabout

Most people hang their clothes to dry in their balcony or backyard. But a local in Nantou had a different idea: hanging them in the middle of the road at a busy roundabout. This unusual laundry day scene raised eyebrows among passersby, with one even taking a picture of the set up and posting it online. Let’s hear more.

Voice of resident
Hung up laundry at roundabout
It was just two hours. They’re fixing the bulging on the floor, and there’s just too much dust. They dried in just two hours. There’s so much stuff I have to get sorted. I haven’t dried my clothes there in ages, but I put them up for two hours just this once and someone came and took a picture of it.

Lee Chia-yen
Police officer
According Article 82 Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 1, of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, a fine of between NT$1,200 and NT$2,400 can be imposed for piling, placing, setting, or throwing objects on roadways that may impede traffic.

It turns out the clothes were put there by a nearby business owner, who says the dust from the renovations currently underway at her shop would have made the clothes dirty. So, she decided to hang the garments out on the road, so that the sunny weather would get them dry quickly. By the time police arrived at the scene, she had already collected all the racks, but it remains to be seen whether she’ll be slapped with a fine.

#laundry #laundryday #clothes #fashion #ecofriendly

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2026-09-14

Dog caught on camera faking hind leg injury

A stray dog in Taitung was recently caught on camera faking an injury to get sympathy. The black dog dragged herself across the street, using her front legs to pull her two limp hind legs along behind. Thinking she was injured, an onlooker was about to go over to help, only for the dog to jump up and start walking perfectly fine on all four legs. Everyone was left in stitches, as they called her performance truly Oscar-worthy.

A stray dog strains to pull her limp hind legs behind her, slowly crawling her way across the street in a scene that’s sure to break your heart. But the very next second...

Just as the onlooker couldn’t take it anymore, the dog jumped up on all fours and walked along like nothing was wrong. She even flopped over onto her back and kicked to show her legs were strong and healthy. The onlooker couldn’t believe what he just saw.

Mr. Chen
Onlooker
It seemed like she couldn’t walk and was crawling along. I felt so sorry for her. But when a scooter came by, she suddenly stood up and later even rolled around on the ground. It was such a waste of my sympathy!

The dog was spotted on Siwei Road in Taitung City, where strays often hang around and chase passing vehicles. So naturally, the onlooker assumed she had been hit by a car or abused. But actually, it was all an Oscar-worthy performance that even a scam ring could envy.

Chung Hui-chen
Veterinarian
If an owner praises this type of behavior, the dog might think it’s fun and start exaggerating the performance even more.

It’s unclear where she learned the trick from, but this young pup surely knows how to put on an act!

#dog #straydog #Taitung #Oscarworthy #viral #funny

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2026-09-14

European Parliament VP confirms Hsiao Bi-khim has arrived in Italy

European Parliament Vice President Pina Picierno has confirmed that Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim has arrived in Italy. Hsiao is now heading to the island of Ventotene to attend the Democracy and Freedom Conference. And Picierno is sending a blunt message to Beijing, saying it has no right to interfere with who they welcome to the island. Let’s hear more.

Pina Picierno
Vice President of European Parliament
Not long ago, I welcomed Taiwan’s vice president at the port, and I believe that sent a very important message. Here in Ventotene in particular, we need to take an even firmer stance and make it clear that no one has the right to decide who can or cannot be welcomed to Ventotene, an island that helped shape the future and the cause of freedom. There’s one regime in particular that has no right to make that decision.

Wang Ting-yu
Lawmaker (DPP)
The ROC Taiwan is being seen by the world. It’s a very meaningful breakthrough. It shows that the EU and Italy are taking an increasingly positive approach toward our country. The fact that Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung were able to enter Italy and attend this major event shows that relations between Taiwan and Italy are warming.

Fan Yun
Lawmaker (DPP)
The Ventotene Democracy and Freedom Conference is being held in a very significant location in Italy. Ventotene is a small island that was once used to imprison intellectuals who stood up against fascism. So the island has come to symbolize the spirit of defending freedom and democracy.

The visit has drawn widespread media attention, with Taiwan’s Presidential Office also confirming that Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is accompanying Hsiao on the trip. The Presidential Office says Hsiao will explain the details after she returns to Taiwan. But her successful visit to Europe as Taiwan’s sitting vice president is already being seen as a major breakthrough in Taiwan’s diplomatic outreach.

#diplomacy #ventotene #italy #taiwan #蕭美琴

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-09-11

DPP candidate’s campaign pens go viral, boosting his popularity

A DPP political candidate is proving literally that the pen is mightier than the sword. Tseng Tzu-yao, a DPP candidate for Taichung City Council, has recently seen a huge boost in his popularity after his campaign ballpoint pens went viral on social media. Now, there are seemingly endless queues of people outside Tseng’s office, hoping to get hold of one of the pens that netizens say has an exceptionally smooth ink flow. But they’re now also in short supply: from a batch of 10,000, 7,000 were sold out in three days. Let’s learn more about this campaign tool that is underlining the power of Taiwan’s democracy.

A long line forms outside the office of Tseng Tzu-yao, a DPP Taichung City councilor candidate representing Beitun District. Most of them are there for his special campaign pen.

Member of the public
Waiting to get a pen
I saw someone sharing it on an online community and they even tried writing with it. I’m quite curious about this legendary pen that writes so well.

Member of the public
Waiting to get a pen
I’m curious to see how good this pen really is to be blowing up like this online.

The campaign pen’s explosive popularity is all because netizens are posting on social media about how smoothly it writes. Is writing with it really that smooth?

Member of the public
Waiting to get a pen
The pen feels surprisingly natural to hold, writes very smoothly and doesn’t feel cheap at all.

Member of the public
Waiting to get a pen
A pen is so easy to carry around—moms can use it to sign school contact books or fill out forms. When it writes smoothly, it really leaves an even greater impression.

Not only is it easy to write with, but its light green metallic glossy casing also gives it a more premium feel compared to other traditional campaign pens.

Tseng Tzu-yao
Taichung City councilor candidate (DPP)
This batch is about 10,000 pens. It took several months to distribute them, and in the last day or two, we’ve probably finished distributing the supply from the previous three or four months. Because after they became popular, everyone was rushing to get one.

Not only did the pen go viral, but it also turned the candidate into a trending search topic, giving him an unexpected bump in exposure.

Other practical campaign items include this green fine mesh bag, which many mothers and grandmothers specifically request when they come to this office.

Member of the public
Likes the mesh bag
It’s very practical and great, I think it’s good.

Fitted over the kitchen sink drain to catch every last bit of food scrap, this kitchen hack has become DPP councilor Chen Ya-hui’s secret weapon for winning over voters.

Chen Ya-hui
Taichung City councilor (DPP)
This is used every day, so every time people see it, they think of Ya-hui. The secret to being memorable is being part of their daily routine.

Election campaigning is intense, with candidates fighting tooth and nail. These candidates are leaning into practical giveaways to leave a lasting impression and stand out from the pack.

#localelections #Taiwanelections #Taiwancampaigning #DPPpoliticians #greatpens #kitchenhacks #ballpointpens

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-09-11

Thousands flock to one-night-only ‘Spirited Away’ night market

Ever wondered what it would look like if Spirited Away came to life in Taiwan? There’s a night market in Miaoli that has earned exactly that comparison, and it only happens one night a year. The streets around Yuanli Train Station are transformed into a massive, one-night-only market, with hundreds of vendors and thousands of visitors turning out for this unusual Ghost Month tradition.

From up in the sky, streams of lit-up streets cast a glow in the night. Huge crowds move up and down the road at this bustling intersection.

Stands from all over the island have set up shop in the middle of the road, and to the sides. Everyone is busy as bees, and the area is filled with the sound of meat and veggies getting prepped, the crackling of the grill, the sizzling of a stove and the bubbling of the deep fryer.

- How many servings did you prep?
- About 500.
- Do you think you’ll sell out?
- I think so.

Vendors hope to sell out. This annual market is one-night-only, and marks the closing of the gates to the underworld. By daybreak everything will be gone.

- How much did you prep?
- About NT$100,000 worth.
- Do you think you’ll sell out?
- We’re on it!
- Are you confident?
- For sure!

For one night on the evening of the 29th day of the 7th lunar month, aka, the last day of the Ghost Month, the roads around Yuanli Train Station become a night market packed with 400 stands. The tradition arose from a ritual the retailers used to hold in the area to mark the end of the month. Now, thousands upon thousands of people flock to this must-see market.

Chang Yun-ming
Longtime Yuanli resident
There was puppet shows, and then we got Taiwanese opera shows. Then we got stage shows. It only got bigger as time went by.

The sheer amount of festival-goers and busy stands creates a lively atmosphere that brings out locals and people from far and wide. It gets so jam-packed that the crowds spill out to streets nearby.

- How do you feel about the flow?
- It’s a little crowded.
- Did you get to eat everything you wanted to?
- Yeah. It’s just once a year after all.

The night-time event is only getting bigger with time. This edition, the township added extra magic with 2,000 colored lanterns near the train station, creating a festive atmosphere that can even be seen from the sky. The decorations will stay until National Day.

#ghibli #spiritedaway #nightmarket #taiwaneats #magical

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

2026-09-11

NTU students belt out in sing-off to bag slot in romance movie class

Watching romance movies to get university credits feels like the best deal ever as a student at National Taiwan University. But to get a spot in the class, you better not have stage fright. With more than 4,000 students competing for one extra slot in the unusual course, the selection process is extremely rigorous. Applicants must prove what they’re worth by belting out the Taigi song “I’m Into You” by Mango Jump, and secure an applause of at least 70 decibels from the crowd.

More than 500 students crammed into one small lecture hall for the audition, with the crowd even spilling out into the corridor. The course “Watch Movies and Learn How to Love” challenges students to think outside the box, by watching romance films and engaging in classroom discussions. The course encourages students to reflect on love, communication, self-awareness, and other aspects of intimate relationships. The goal is to help them develop the skills needed to build and maintain healthy relationships.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#romance #ntu #台大 #movies #cinephile

2026-09-11

Bakery hires over 100 part-timers to fill rushed holiday orders

As the Mid-Autumn Festival draws near, bakeries are entering their busiest season. One well-known shop hired over 100 extra part-timers working over three shifts for 24 hours every day to fill their long list of orders. Although ingredient costs have been relatively stable, the owner said that packaging materials such as plastic bags and paper boxes have gotten about 15% more expensive. They’ve decided to absorb the extra cost this time around, as they seek to capitalize on the festive gift-giving season.

Round scoops of red bean paste are folded delicately into dough entirely by hand. One baker can wrap up to 5,000 per day, bringing this bakery’s daily mooncake output to 200,000.

On the other side, freshly baked taro lava pastries are packed into clear containers, sealed, and individually wrapped. The Mid-Autumn Festival is almost here, and the assembly line at this well-known bakery is running at full capacity.

Lee Tien-hung
Bakery manager
We’ve brought in extra help for the Mid-Autumn rush, a little more than 100 part-timers. We run a three-shift system operating 24 hours a day to meet deadlines. This year, our largest corporate order was for over 5,000 boxes.

Once they roll off the production line, the mooncakes are sent to the adjacent building for boxing, sealing, and assembly. Once they’re ready, workers will verify the orders and seal the boxes for shipping. The most popular offering is the taro lava cake, featuring salted egg yolk and taro paste for the perfect blend of salty and sweet. They’re also selling a seasonal-limited matcha pomelo flavor, with pineapple filling and pomelo jam wrapped inside a pineapple cake crust. The tangy-sweet combo has attracted many buyers.

Customer
Buys pastries for festivals
Most egg yolk pastries are dry, but not this one. This one is more moist inside. We get them for corporate gifts during the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year.

Lee Tien-hung
Bakery manager
Ingredient costs have stabilized. Plastic goods is where we’ve seen the biggest price increase, like our plastic bags and packaging film. Even the paper boxes have gone up by at least 15%. We’re absorbing the cost. Our target for sales growth this year is 30%. As of now, we’ve already reached 20%.

Although packaging costs have gone up, the bakery is adopting a high-volume, low-margin strategy to maintain sales growth.

#MidAutumnFestival #mooncakes #bakery #pastries #MoonFestival #foodindustry

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2026-09-11

Premier countersigns KMT version of drone industry development bill

Premier Cho Jung-tai has countersigned the KMT’s version of a much-debated bill regarding the development of Taiwan’s drone industry. But though their law is now promulgated, opposition lawmakers from the KMT and TPP are not happy about the process. They are criticizing the premier for potentially using the countersignature system to block bills he doesn’t support. Let’s hear more.

Cho Jung-tai
Premier
I countersigned the bill within the legally prescribed period. The only rationale for countersigning bills is that they must not violate the Constitution or the law, undermine the separation of powers or undermine fiscal discipline. We shouldn’t put industry, or national defense and security in the back burner. We insist on two principles. The government’s power over the budget should not be undermined by a breach of the separation of powers. And national secrets must be properly protected.

Lee Yen-hsiu
Lawmaker (KMT)
Countersignatures are not a Constitutional pick-and-mix right for the premier. It’s not a power to be wielded unconstitutionally.

Hung Yu-shiang
Lawmaker (TPP)
The Executive Yuan shouldn’t have double standards. They can’t choose to countersign only the bills they want to approve.

Xavier Chang
Executive Yuan Secretary-General
National security should not be sacrificed for political welfare. And neither should industrial development. We’ve decided to let go of the dispute and put our country first. National defense and security cannot wait.

The bill is called the Act on Strengthening Defense Autonomy and Developing the Unmanned Vehicles Industry. It allocates NT$240 billion over six years, and requires the Executive to establish a strategic committee on the matter. This committee would be formed by experts recommended by the different political parties, and the meetings would be required to be made public online. This latest part has been slammed by the DPP, which says that making such information public would be welcoming the enemy with a red carpet. Premier Cho says that, though the Executive Yuan is disappointed with the bill, it is not unconstitutional, adding that any shortcomings can be made up for during its implementation.

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#drone #uav #defense #taiwan #politics

2026-09-11

Chinese snacks smuggled into Taiwan spark food safety fears

Snacks from China, such as noodles, spicy peanuts and wax candies, have become popular in Taiwan thanks to social media. However, some can contain additives that are strictly restricted in Taiwan, raising food safety concerns. A Control Yuan investigation found that these kinds of Chinese snacks have been continuously entering Taiwan through legal loopholes in recent years. Over one hundred businesses have been investigated for illegally selling them. Let’s find out more.

The pungent yet fragrant hot and spicy broth of Liuzhou luosifen is so addictive that many foodies become instantly hooked after just one bite. But watch out—this unique Chinese snack, once it crosses over to Taiwan, can easily turn from a popular treat into illegal smuggling before you know it.

Customs and border quarantine agencies are the first line of defense for food safety before overseas food enters Taiwan. All food items, whether delivered by courier or mail, must undergo inspection.

Kuo Kuan-yuan
Customs Administration
All express delivery and parcel shipments undergo X-ray inspection. Each shipment has a barcode upon import, and our customs officials examine every single parcel.

Officials use X-ray machines, coupled with data from the person’s past records, to layer by layer screen out suspicious packages. Between 2023 and 2025 alone, customs seized 3,071 illegally imported Chinese snacks. Among them, Chinese spicy peanuts were the most frequently seized, followed by candy and luosifen. However, with so many packages, it is probably impossible to prevent them coming in by relying solely on customs at the frontline.

Tien Chiu-chin
Control Yuan investigator
In 2025, 800,000 people imported food under the guise of personal consumption. Some imported several thousand kilograms of food in a year, all claiming it was for personal use. Is that likely? Of course not.

For illegal food products that have already entered the market, the Food and Drug Administration will cooperate with local health agencies to conduct inspections. If importers are found to lack import permits or to be evading inspections, they may face fines of NT$30,000 to NT$3 million in accordance with the Food Safety Act.

Voice of Hsu Chao-kai
Food and Drug Administration
We look at approximately how much of these products the public actually needs or uses in a year.

The government is considering strengthening preventative measures, but consumers should not only consider the price before buying food; they should also carefully check the source labeling and legality.

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#Foodsafety #Chineseimports #Taiwanfoodsafety #Chinese #snacks

2026-09-11

Social workers intervene in boy selling guavas alone in Pingtung

People recently spotted a young boy in Pingtung selling guavas from a cart all by himself. The county’s Department of Social Affairs came to check on him and discovered that he had also been seen selling the fruit in Kaohsiung with his parents nowhere in sight. The department is considering imposing a fine.

- Where’s your dad?
Is he close by?

Two social workers ask a young boy running a guava stand where his father is.

- He says he’ll take us to his dad.
On principle, he can’t run the stand by himself.
You just can’t let him run the stand all by himself.

They finally found his father, but this wasn’t the first time the boy was spotted selling guavas alone. He was also seen running the stand by himself in Kaohsiung.

- We need the money.
- What else do you help your family with?
- I only sell guava.
- Did your dad go back home?
- There’s no way he went back. The round trip is too long.

The boy’s father waits outside the night market until he’s sold all the fruit, then takes him back home. The sign on the stand says “filial child,” clearly in an attempt to elicit sympathy.

Member of public
Pities child
He’s so young. He should be living carefree, but he’s here selling guava.

Member of public
Pities child
It seems like he’s been forced to grow up. His parents should at least be there with him.

Having a child sell things alone is against child welfare laws. After being caught in Kaohsiung, they went back to Pingtung. The boy is on the Pingtung Department of Social Affairs’ list of people to check on, but no matter how many times they’ve talked to his father, he seems unwilling to change.

Hsu Tzu-yun
Pingtung social affairs deputy director
We’ve already been helping this family for many years, even putting the father through mandatory parenting education. But repeated conversations with social workers have done little to stop him from having his son run a stand alone in the night market.

The department said it would fine the father if he keeps having his son sell fruit by himself. Hopefully, the boy can have a more carefree childhood.

#child #son #poor #poverty #father #childlabor #childwelfare #guavastand #guavas #Pingtung

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2026-09-11

Runaway pet sika deer strolls Kaohsiung’s streets for 6 hours

A sika deer named “Little Flower” went on a big adventure in Kaohsiung this week. Looking like Bambi in the flesh, the hoofed mammal made its great escape at 3am, and continued to keep a distance from its owner and even the police during a game of chase that lasted for 6 hours. But thanks to a tranquilizer dart courtesy of the local animal protection office, Little Flower was trapped and returned to its human’s home.

This sika deer is strolling alongside a city street, scanning its surroundings. A large number of people in the city saw the four-legged creature, which begs the question: just where did this deer come from?

And here comes the animal’s owner, who’s dashing forward with a leash in his right hand. The man is practically begging his furry friend to come home, yet this hoofed mammal sprints off, showing that it isn’t in the mood to be obedient.

After receiving a call, the police arrived to help the owner put an end to this, as they feared the deer possibly might run onto a busy road. All in all, this game of catch ended up lasting longer than an hour.

No one can run forever, especially after getting hit by a tranquilizer dart. The local animal protection office caught the 2-year-old sika deer a bit after 9am. Six hours earlier, the timid herbivore made its great escape from its owner’s home in Cianjhen District. This deer strolled down many urban streets, and when it stood still some people mistook it for a sculpture.

Owner of sika deer
Said deer got spooked
The little one didn’t get here until after 6am. The deer actually was near our home for a time until it got chased by a vehicle or spooked, something like that. That’s why my deer didn’t know how to get back home.

Kuo Ming-chin
Kaohsiung Animal Protection Office
For the owner of a pet, if the animal is on a road or public place due to negligent behavior on the part of the owner, then the offender can be punished with a fine ranging from NT$3,000 to NT$15,000.

Despite it not being against the law to raise sika deer, the city’s animal protection office advises against raising large herbivore animals in urban areas. Fortunately for motorists and the deer known as Little Flower, this amusing incident didn’t turn into a car crash.

#deerinheadlights #Kaohsiung #naturefindsaway #sikadeer #cute #Bambi

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2026-09-11