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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

Time：2026-10-19

最新消息 Latest News

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.

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

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

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

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

#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
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

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

#premiums #health #costs #kmt #tpp

2026-10-16

Chiang and Shen buckle down in preparation for first debate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#dpp #mayoraldebate #kmt #chiangwanan #pumashen

2026-10-16

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#pumashen #election #dpp #taipei #politics

2026-10-16

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-10-16

Spanish drag couturier creates dazzling Taiwan-inspired designs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#costumedesign #drag #梵雅戈 #sewing #taiwan

2026-10-16

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

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

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

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

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

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

#heist #tainan #money #securityguard #accomplice

2026-10-16

A new chapter begins for Tainan Railway Station

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#tra #taiwanrailway #emotional #farewell #monument #tainan

2026-10-16

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-10-16

Surfing competition to draw top athletes to Taitung in November

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-10-16

TSMC confirms talks with Musk over Texas fab

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

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

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

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

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

#tsmc #tech #us #arizona #chips

2026-10-15