TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) visited Hualien's disaster command post on Thursday (Sept. 25) and called County Magistrate Hsu Chen-wei (徐榛蔚) after discovering her absence from briefings. Lai told officials everyone must stand together with Hualien residents during the crisis. The president assessed the disaster situation and offered government assistance to the eastern Taiwan county.
During their conversation, Hsu outlined urgent needs, requesting additional manpower from the Ministry of National Defense (國防部) to clear streets and houses. The county magistrate sought military equipment from 42 categories totaling 3,853 items, including vehicles from operational zones. Hsu also requested authorization for a Guangfu Township (光復鄉) relief fund account, similar to the central government account established by Minister without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung (陳時中).
Lai confirmed Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Taiwan's cabinet head, instructed the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (交通部) to address the Matai'an Bridge crisis. Transportation Minister Chen Shi-kai (陳世凱) announced plans for a temporary culvert bridge within one month and structural bridge in four months. Officials aim to complete at least a one-way permanent bridge by the end of 2026.
Lai expressed central government commitment to supporting Hualien County government during the disaster response. The president's visit demonstrates unified government response to address the crisis challenges. Officials pledged coordinated efforts between central and local authorities to assist affected communities. ◼
