Thursday briefing: What you need to know about Taiwan today

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan stood at the dynamic intersection of disaster recovery, political friction, public health vigilance, and international acclaim on Thursday (Jan. 23). As Tainan bounces back from a severe earthquake, the nation navigates the complexities of fiscal governance, addresses surging health demands, and basks in global recognition for sustainability. Here are the five news stories you need to know tonight:

Aid for Tainan Earthquake Victims

After a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck Chiayi County's Dapu Township on January 21, Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) announced a relief initiative. Up to NT$500,000 in condolence payments will be provided to those injured, echoing the response to the 2018 earthquake. The city government has activated emergency response mechanisms to expedite disaster relief efforts before the Lunar New Year.

Significant structural damage, including cracked walls and fallen debris, prompted safety assessments by the Taiwan Professional Civil Engineers Association and the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations. Financial assistance includes payments for residents with damaged homes and business subsidies, with additional funds allocated for structural repairs and demolition. Tainan's commitment to supporting its citizens is evident through these comprehensive measures.

Budget Cuts Draw Premier's Ire
Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) criticized the Legislative Yuan's handling of the central government's budget, highlighting a cut rate six times higher than in past years. At a press conference, he argued that the NT$207.6 billion budget cuts, with a reduction rate of 6.6%, hinder government operations. Cho emphasized the need for increased expenditures to enhance service capacity, focusing on public infrastructure and health insurance.

The budget cuts sparked debate, with Cho highlighting the government's role in improving citizens' lives amid significant economic growth. The Executive Yuan's rejection of the budget cuts underscores ongoing tensions, with Cho's remarks signaling potential challenges in reconciling fiscal priorities with legislative decisions.

KMT Criticizes Premier Over Budget Explanation
The Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) accused Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) of misleading the public about budget cuts, claiming his explanation was a smokescreen for ethical failings. They argued that the issue lies in moral responsibility, not financial constraints, and challenged his claim about funds for the Executive Yuan's new media office. The KMT also criticized the revised "Constitutional Court Procedure Act" as opposing parliamentary opinion.

The KMT highlighted public support for the amendment, contrasting it with the president's actions, and emphasized the importance of "administration according to law." They urged the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) to adopt a more responsible approach, stressing the need for logical governance in the constitutional court.

Surge in Demand for Measles Vaccinations
A measles outbreak at a central Taiwan hospital has led to increased demand for self-paid vaccinations at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH, 台大醫院). The dedicated clinic consistently fills its daily limit of 50 appointments. NTUH Vice Superintendent Huang Kuo-chin (黃國晉) explained the prioritization of healthcare workers and travelers, with domestic vaccination rates for young children remaining high.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) stated that the outbreak remains contained within the hospital, with no new community clusters. Despite the initial surge, demand for vaccinations has begun to decline, reflecting controlled management of the outbreak and reassuring the public about the limited scope of the measles cases.

Taiwan High Speed Rail's Global Sustainability Recognition
Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC, 台灣高鐵) has been recognized as the fifth most sustainable corporation globally, according to the Global 100 list announced by the World Economic Forum. THSRC's leadership in sustainability has been consistently acknowledged, with the company topping transit and transportation infrastructure indicators.

THSRC President James Jeng (鄭光遠) emphasized the role of high-speed trains as a green transport backbone in Taiwan, highlighting the company's strategic alignment with global ESG trends. This recognition underscores THSRC's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and creating a safe travel environment for passengers, marking a significant achievement in the transportation sector.