���������through 結果共272筆

DPP Chairman Lai Ching-te addressed the disputes surrounding his illegally constructed family property in Wanli, emphasizing that houses like his can apply for retroactive legalization through proper procedures. Lai argued that the house in question was built in 1958, before the implementing of the Mining Act in 1963 and the Regional Plan Act in 1981, making it legally established. He criticized the government’s mishandling of responsibilities following the cessation of mining rights, which made it difficult for residents in mining areas to repair their homes. Lai believes that the property can undergo procedural rectification to attain legal status. He compared his property to other high-profile constructions to clarify its scale and value. Lai expressed his commitment to transparency and rallied unity within the DPP, expressing confidence in their victory in the upcoming elections.

The National Land Management Agency (NLMA) in Taiwan has announced that the application period for the ＂Mortgage Assistance Program for Low-and-Middle-Income Homeowners＂ will close next Friday. Since its launch on June 1, over 730,000 households have applied for the program, with more than 460,000 qualifying for the subsidy. The NLMA aims to benefit 550,000 middle to low-income households, and there are still places available for applicants as of Wednesday. Eligible customers are being notified by financial institutions through text messages, emails, or loan payment receipts. Applicants are only required to provide basic information online and will receive a one-time payment of NT＄30,000 upon approval.

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a heavy rain advisory for Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Keelung City in Taiwan, warning of potential intensive downpours throughout the evening. The northeast monsoon is causing localized heavy rainfall in coastal areas of Keelung and mountainous regions of Taipei. The strengthening of the northeast monsoon has also prompted alerts for strong gusts ranging from force 9 to 11, potentially affecting areas from Taoyuan City to Tainan City, as well as southeastern parts of the island, including Orchid Island, Green Island, and the Hengchun Peninsula. The advisory for strong winds covers an expansive area, including Taoyuan City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Yunlin County, Chiayi County, Tainan City, the Hengchun Peninsula, Taitung County, Orchid Island, Green Island, Penghu County, and the Kinmen and Matsu region. These strong wind conditions are expected to last from the early morning of Wednesday (Dec. 20) through the evening of Friday (Dec. 22).

Shares of Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. experienced a surge in volume, with over 70,000 shares traded, ranking in the top five in terms of transaction volume. This follows the suspension of services through the Red Sea by major container shipping companies, including Evergreen Marine Corp., Yang Ming, and Wan Hai Lines Ltd., due to attacks by Yemeni militants. The crisis in the Red Sea has led to global shipping lines rerouting, potentially alleviating excess capacity and boosting international freight rates. The stock performance of these ＂Big Three＂ container shipping firms has drawn significant attention. Evergreen Marine’s stock exhibited volatility, reaching a post-ex-dividend high of NT$148 but later dipping to NT$144.5. Yang Ming’s stock price also reached a morning peak but corrected downwards, with a trading volume surpassing 70,000 shares. Wan Hai Lines experienced a similar downward trend. These movements in the shipping sector are closely monitored amid the ongoing situation in the Red Sea, which impacts shipping routes worldwide.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson expressed gratitude for the concern shown by friends in the U.S. Congress regarding Taiwan’s security. The U.S. military has observed increased provocative actions by China around the Taiwan Strait ahead of the Taiwanese presidential election. Admiral John Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, has called for restraint from China, perceiving these actions as pressure tactics. U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher urged the Pentagon to provide a classified briefing on assisting Taiwan in deterring China. Taiwan is committed to bolstering its self-defense capabilities and pursuing peace through dialogue with Beijing authorities. Despite pressure, Taiwan will maintain a non-provocative stance while defending national sovereignty and democratic freedom. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed regret over China’s threats of countermeasures against U.S. firms involved in arms sales to Taiwan and emphasized the need for the U.S. to fulfill its security promises.

Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen expresses regret over China characterizing Taiwan’s trade restrictions as trade barriers, emphasizing the need to address conflicts through the World Trade Organization (WTO) mechanisms. He urges for peaceful and equal cross-strait exchanges, highlighting that Taiwan and China can negotiate through the WTO. Premier Chen also extends condolences to the families of the victims of the recent earthquake in China’s Gansu province and offers assistance with relief efforts if needed.

Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Chen Chien-jen have been alerted and instructed to prepare for emergency relief efforts following a magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Gansu Province, mainland China. The earthquake resulted in the deaths of 105 people and damage to 4,782 homes. Taiwan’s Minister of Interior, Lin Yu-chang, announced that a 160-member search and rescue team, including a structural engineer, doctors, nurses, and search dogs certified in International Search and Rescue Dog Organisation (IRO) rubble search, is ready to provide assistance. Communication has been established with mainland China through the Mainland Affairs Council to coordinate rescue needs. If requested, Taiwan’s National Fire Agency will collaborate with the Disaster Relief Foundation to activate a special charter flight mechanism for humanitarian rescue missions. Additionally, an earthquake in Qinghai Province resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, bringing the total earthquake death toll in mainland China to 118. Taiwan’s quick mobilization demonstrates its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance despite the complex political relationship with Beijing.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has announced that individuals can now book appointments for up to four passport applications at once online, an increase from the previous limit of one. This change, effective since December 17, is in response to a surge in passport applications following the reopening of international borders after the pandemic. The ministry’s Bureau of Consular Affairs encourages the public to take advantage of the enhanced ’Individual Passport Application Form Filling and Appointment System’ to schedule appointments in advance and reduce waiting times. The bureau’s official website also offers a real-time feature to check the current number being served and the number of people waiting, helping applicants avoid long queues. For further assistance, the Bureau of Consular Affairs provides information through their website and a dedicated passport inquiry hotline. These efforts reflect the ministry’s commitment to adapting public services to meet the evolving needs of citizens in the post-pandemic era.

Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen expresses condolences and sympathies to the victims and bereaved families of the recent devastating earthquake in Gansu Province, mainland China. He also hopes for a speedy recovery for those injured. Taiwan is ready to provide assistance through relevant agencies if needed. Executive Yuan spokesman Lin Tzu-lun also voices concern for the human and material losses inflicted by the earthquake. The Executive Yuan expects smooth and effective rescue operations and restoration efforts in Gansu Province. This show of solidarity from Taiwan highlights the shared understanding of the challenges posed by natural disasters in the region and the willingness to aid neighbors in times of crisis.

Taiwanese entertainer Tina Chou, also known as ＂Da Ya,＂ has been acquitted of defamation charges by the Taipei District Court. Chou had accused her former boss, Chen Chien-chou, of attempting to assault her years ago, leading to Chen filing a defamation suit against her. The court sessions involved testimonies from both parties, ultimately resulting in the prosecutor’s decision not to pursue charges against Chou. Chou expressed gratitude to the judiciary and hoped her experience would encourage other victims of sexual harassment or assault to come forward. Witnesses, including actress Julie Tsai, supported Chou’s claims. Chen, seeking to clear his name, stated his desire to reveal the truth and prove his innocence through legal means. This case highlights the ongoing conversation about sexual misconduct in Taiwan’s entertainment industry and the challenges faced by those who speak out.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) has announced the addition of extra trains from Dec. 29 to Jan. 1, 2024, in anticipation of the New Year’s holiday rush. Travelers can book the additional train services through various channels, including the TRA website, e訂通 app, convenience stores, and telephone reservation systems. A total of 18 extra train services will be deployed, with six additional services on the Eastern Line, including one northbound and one southbound train operating on the cross-island route. The South-Link Line will see an increase of four Puyuma Express and Tzu-Chiang trains, while six more EMU900 commuter express trains will be added to the Western Line. Additionally, 24 overnight train services will be added across different regions to cater to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Travelers can check timings and schedule details on the official TRA website and e訂通 app.

Evergreen Marine Corp, a Taiwanese shipping company, has temporarily suspended its shipping services through the Red Sea due to security threats posed by Houthi militants. This decision comes after a series of attacks on commercial ships by the Yemen-based group, which has escalated tensions in the region. Evergreen joins other global shipping giants, including Orient Overseas Container Line, CMA CGM, Maersk Group, Hapag-Lloyd, and Mediterranean Shipping Company, in halting passage through the Red Sea. The attacks by the Houthis, aimed at blocking ships en route to Israel, have led to the interception of drones and missiles by the U.S. Navy, British Navy, and French Navy. In response to the exacerbating security situation, Evergreen has rerouted its ships from Asia to the Mediterranean and the U.S. East Coast to avoid the Red Sea. British Petroleum (BP) has also suspended its oil transit through the Red Sea due to increased risks.

The Ministry of Labor in Taiwan has announced significant revisions to the regulations governing work permits for foreign professionals in arts and performing arts. The new regulations, which will take effect on December 20, aim to attract more foreign artistic talent to Taiwan’s cultural scene. One major change is the acceptance of documents from important international organizations, such as the United Nations, for residents of Hong Kong and Macau who are unable to obtain official recommendation or certification documents. The framework for foreign artistic professionals’ work is divided into four main types: performance and visual arts, publishing, film and broadcasting, and popular music and crafts. The qualifications for the publishing industry have been relaxed to recognize individuals with over five years of publishing experience who demonstrate originality and special performance in their field. Similarly, the qualifications for crafts-related work have been broadened to accept assistant professors or individuals with equivalent qualifications. Prior to these revisions, the application process for foreigners undertaking artistic work in Taiwan was stringent, requiring an application through an employer or by the professionals themselves if they met the necessary qualifications. As of October 2023, Taiwan had 245 self-employed foreign artists holding valid working permits, highlighting the country’s growing reputation as a hub for international art professionals.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Education’s ’108 curriculum’ has brought about new educational outcomes, as noted by Premier Chen Chien-jen. The 2022 International Civic and Citizenship Education Study (ICCS 2022) by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) reveals that Taiwanese students have achieved top global rankings in civic knowledge, gender equality, and ethnic group equality. The government’s efforts to strengthen education through the new curriculum have also been recognized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Among 81 countries assessed, Taiwanese students ranked third in mathematics literacy, fourth in science, and fifth in reading. Premier Chen emphasized that these achievements highlight Taiwan’s exceptional students and demonstrate the nation’s commitment to investing in education. The OECD evaluation further solidifies Taiwan’s position on the world stage for educational accomplishments, showcasing the effectiveness of its educational policies and curriculum advancements. Premier Chen expressed confidence in Taiwan’s youth and the government’s education approach, stating that these high rankings represent a valuable investment in the future generations of Taiwan.

Taipei actor Greg Hsu’s appearance in a music video by Mandopop legend Jay Chou at the age of 13 has shocked fans online. In a throwback clip from Chou’s ＂Class 3-2＂ music video, a young Hsu can be seen playing table tennis while wearing black-rimmed glasses. Despite his rounder face, his distinctive features are already evident. The discovery of this footage has sparked surprise and admiration for Hsu’s transformation from a young table tennis player to a heartthrob. Now 32 years old, Hsu gained fame through his breakout role in the Taiwanese drama ＂Someday or One Day＂ and has become immensely popular across Asia, particularly in China and South Korea. Hsu has revealed that he took up sports, including table tennis, to manage his childhood asthma. His talent in the sport earned him a spot on the elementary school team and eventually led to his cameo in Chou’s music video. ＂Someday or One Day,＂ which co-stars Alice Ko, is considered a landmark Taiwanese television series and has garnered such acclaim that South Korea produced its own remake titled ＂A Time Called You.＂

Taiwanese singer Yoga Lin surprises fans with a flash mob performance after his last ＂idol＂ world tour concert at Taipei Arena. Wearing a paper bag mask branded with ＂yy,＂ Lin serenades fans through a megaphone at the arena’s service counter. Accommodating live song requests, he performs hits such as ＂Linger On,＂ ＂You Are What You Eat,＂ and ＂Flight＂ before bidding farewell. Lin’s playful and unexpected stunt adds a perfect and memorable end to his tour.

The Transportation Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government has announced that left turns will be permitted at 10 intersections along the route of the Kaohsiung Circular Light Rail. In order to maintain traffic flow and address concerns from drivers, the bureau has reviewed and assessed traffic regulations. To minimize the impact on through traffic, vehicles will be directed to stay to the right about 50 meters upstream from the intersections. Additionally, changes to signal timing and settings on main roads surrounding the light rail, including Dashun Road, Jiangong Road, Dafeng Road, and Dachang Road, will be implemented. These adjustments aim to respond to actual traffic flow and will be fine-tuned as needed.

The CPC Corporation, under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, has announced a reduction of NT$0.3 in gasoline prices and an increase of NT$0.3 in diesel prices starting midnight on Monday. This adjustment is part of the ongoing implementation of the dual stabilization mechanism for oil pricing. The pricing measures absorbed NT$0.2 for both gasoline and diesel this week, following a decline in the 7D3B weekly average price. The floating oil pricing mechanism originally predicted a decrease of NT$0.1 in gasoline prices and an increase of NT$0.5 in diesel prices. However, due to currency appreciation in neighboring Asian countries, Taiwan’s price adjustments fell below those of its neighbors, resulting in a net absorption of NT$0 for both types of fuel. CPC has stated that it will continue to adjust domestic fuel prices in accordance with the oil pricing formula and government tax reductions to maintain the lowest possible prices in Asia and stabilize domestic oil prices through its stabilization measures.

The Taoyuan Union of Pilots (TUP) has announced that EVA Air pilots will hold a strike vote in response to the airline’s handling of end-of-year bonuses and salary raises. The TUP claims that EVA Air’s cost-cutting measures and talent loss have resulted in frequent safety incidents. The union plans to hold a press conference in front of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to voice their demands. EVA Air has been accused of aggressively reducing costs, leading to a significant loss of national pilots and the hiring of foreign pilots through illegal brokers. The TUP believes the MOTC should take responsibility and has set a deadline for EVA Air to improve the situation, suggesting that flight rights be reduced if conditions are not met.

Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant JN.1 has been sporadically detected in Taiwan’s local cases. JN.1 is an offspring of the BA.2.86 variant and was first detected in Taiwan on Oct. 20 through a traveler from Japan. The local proportion of the JN.1 strain is below 5 percent, indicating that it has not become the dominant strain. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the continued use of the XBB.1.5 vaccine strain, which has been shown to be effective against JN.1 and other emerging variants.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih emphasizes a ＂middle-of-the-road＂ approach for Taiwan, distancing himself from the ＂localized Blue＂ faction and asserting his own identity. In an interview with Chinese Television Service (CTS), Hou advocates for the ＂1992 Consensus＂ that opposes Taiwan’s independence and supports the ＂One-China policy,＂ while upholding democracy and freedom. He emphasizes a middle way for Taiwan, seeking shared prosperity and unity. Hou emphasizes that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its 23 million inhabitants. He expresses satisfaction with Jaw Shaw-kong as his running mate, praising Jaw’s more confrontational approach. Although a potential collaboration with Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je fell through, Hou remains optimistic about a potential alliance with Jaw.

The TVBS Charity Foundation organized a fundraising dinner in Taipei, inviting social welfare agencies and disadvantaged households to participate. The event is part of a series of fundraising dinners in collaboration with municipal government teams, churches, and social welfare charities. Over 12,000 disadvantaged families have already been assisted through these events. New Taipei Acting Mayor Liu Ho-jan emphasized the beauty of Taiwanese society and the contributions made by individuals in improving the land. Through public-private partnerships, vulnerable families are receiving warmth and care before Christmas.

The Taoyuan Union of Pilots (TUP) has taken their concerns to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), demanding increased oversight of EVA Air due to dissatisfaction over wages and annual bonuses despite rising revenues. The union has threatened to limit the airline’s rights if conditions are not improved by a specified deadline and plans to hold a strike vote on December 22. EVA Air has faced scrutiny for various issues, including understaffing that has led to several safety incidents. Pilots accuse the airline of excessive cost-cutting measures, such as hiring foreign pilots through illegal brokers, resulting in a workforce where foreign pilots outnumber national pilots. Over the past year, EVA Air has experienced a significant decline in national pilots, with approximately 10% of the total pilot workforce leaving. The union also claims that EVA Air’s response to the manpower shortage, including mandatory overtime and inadequate training, has resulted in frequent safety incidents. The union is calling for a comprehensive labor inspection and continuous penalties for workplace safety incidents. The Ministry of Transportation and Communications has received a petition from the union and emphasizes the priority of flight safety and public well-being, urging EVA Air to engage in dialogue. The Ministry of Labor is also involved in labor-capital negotiations. The strike vote result, due on January 5, will determine whether a strike will be launched, contingent on EVA Air’s willingness to negotiate improvement measures sincerely.

A pivotal study reveals that dengue fever can rapidly spread through a transmission method similar to needle-sharing in infectious diseases like HBV, HCB, and HIV. The study, conducted by Taiwan’s National Health Research Institutes in collaboration with the Department of Health and Kaohsiung City Government, analyzed the timing of infections during the 2015 outbreak. They found that in 85% of household cases, symptoms occurred within three days of each other, contradicting the previously believed incubation period for virus transmission. Using animal models, researchers confirmed that when mosquitoes bite an infected animal and then promptly bite another, the virus can transfer via the mosquito’s proboscis, bypassing the once-considered essential eight-day extrinsic incubation period. This finding explains the rapid spread of the 2015 dengue epidemic in Taiwan and raises concerns for the recent spike in cases. The study, published in the esteemed journal eBiomedicine, a Lancet subsidiary, in August 2023, also involved international researchers from the University of California, Nagoya University, Tsinghua University, and National Taiwan University.

According to a recent poll, the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) ＂Lai-Hsiao ticket＂ has a support rate of 32.7%, placing them ahead in the presidential race. The Kuomintang’s (KMT) ＂Hou-Kong ticket＂ closely trails behind with 29% support. If strategic voting occurs, the Taiwan People’s Party’s (TPP) ＂Ko-Ying ticket＂ could lose 7.3% of their current support, potentially resulting in a tie between Hou-Kong and Lai-Xiao at 32.7%. Compared to the previous poll in November, the Lai-Xiao ticket has gained 4.4% support, while the Hou-Kong duo has seen a modest increase of 0.8%. Conversely, support for the Ko-Ying pair has decreased by 4.6%. The survey, conducted through landline and mobile phone interviews on December 13 and 14, involved 1,088 Taiwanese citizens aged 20 and above.