Japan plans to revise Self-Defense Forces ranks for the first time since their establishment in 1954
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japanese government plans to change the names of senior Self-Defense Forces ranks to align with international standards, in the first comprehensive review since the forces were established in 1954. The titles for ranks of general and above will be standardized with those used by other countries’ militaries, including renaming the chief of staff as “general.”
Germany to send minesweeper to Mediterranean for possible Strait of Hormuz mission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Germany’s Defense Ministry announced it will deploy a minesweeper to the Mediterranean in the coming days in preparation for a mission in the Strait of Hormuz after the US-Italy war ends. The mission aims to ensure freedom of navigation, but requires approval from the Bundestag.
Uber Cup: Taiwan women sweep Australia to win their opening match
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the Uber Cup badminton team tournament in Denmark, Taiwan’s women’s team shut out Australia 5-0 to open the group stage with a win. Singles players 邱品蒨 and 林湘緹 and doubles players 許尹鏸 and 林芝昀 put in strong performances.
Long Chien-yu kneels to thank her mother for support at concert, performs medley honoring mentor Feng Fei-fei
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singer 龍千玉 held her first solo concert, “男人情女人心,” in Taichung, expressing gratitude to her mother, who is about 90 years old, and tearfully paying tribute to her mentor 鳳飛飛 with a medley. The concert featured a star-studded lineup of guests and ended to great acclaim.
The results of Taiwan’s 今彩539 lottery draw No. 115102 were announced. One ticket won the first prize, worth NT$8 million. Results for the second prize, 3星彩 and 4星彩 were also released.
EU's 20th round of sanctions on Russia includes several Chinese companies; Beijing calls it brazen
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s Ministry of Commerce expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition after the EU listed several Chinese companies in its 20th round of sanctions against Russia. China criticized the EU’s actions as damaging China-EU relations, demanded that the companies be removed from the sanctions list and said it was prepared to take necessary measures.
Wang Shun-ho's pair of MVP awards both came in Taoyuan; his witty quotes stem from his love of reading
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
味全龍隊 player 王順和 won MVP for the second time at Taoyuan Stadium, leading his team to victory with a go-ahead triple. His famous line, “Today’s sun can’t dry tomorrow’s cotton quilt,” came from his love of reading.
Turkey says it is willing to consider joining mine-clearing in the Strait of Hormuz after a US-Iran ceasefire
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Turkey’s foreign minister said the country would consider taking part in mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz if Iran and the United States reach a peace agreement. He described the work as a humanitarian obligation and said he was generally positive about sending a technical team.
English test for technical college entrance exam covers Danjiang Bridge and Alex Honnold's Taipei 101 climb; difficulty expected to rise
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The English section of the 115年度 四技二專 Unified Entrance Exam is expected to be slightly more difficult than last year’s. The questions covered a wide range of topics, including the 淡江大橋, 霍諾德’s climb of Taipei 101, international skills competitions, AI and supercomputers.
Tang Chuan sets out from his underwater hometown to write The Great Silence, encourages readers to pick up "Books from Upstream"
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At a discussion in Taipei, poet 唐捐（劉正忠） spoke about his essay collection 『大規模的沉默』 and encouraged aspiring writers to read more classical works, including 『上游之書』.
Taiwan tour group bus overturns in Gansu, leaving 1 dead and 12 injured; Tourism Administration urges 喜鴻旅行社 to make post-accident arrangements
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
One person was killed and 12 injured when a tour bus carrying a Taiwanese travel group overturned in Gansu province. The Straits Exchange Foundation and the Tourism Administration confirmed the accident and asked 喜鴻旅行社 to make arrangements for those affected. The travel agency has travel liability insurance as required.
After a spate of school shootings in Turkey, Erdoğan replaces deputy education minister
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After 9 people were killed in a series of school shootings in Turkey, President Erdoğan announced late at night that he had dismissed the deputy education minister. The government plans to advance measures including tighter gun ownership regulations.
Chen Chieh-hsien is "back" with 1 hit and 1 stolen base, wins MVP and leads Lions to 2 straight victories
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中華職業棒球大聯盟（CPBL）統一7-ELEVEn獅隊 captain 陳傑憲 recorded 1 hit, 1 stolen base and 1 walk in his first start since returning from injury, helping his team beat the 台鋼ホークス 6-4 and earning game MVP honors. The win gave 獅隊 its 2nd straight victory.
Filipino girl attacked without provocation by man; father recalls the incident, still shaken
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 3-year-old Filipino girl was randomly assaulted at Taipei Main Station, and her father said he still feels afraid. The suspect was referred to prosecutors on suspicion of attempted murder.
Wang Shun-ho excels in Taoyuan; clutch triple helps Dragons stay No. 1
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In a Chinese Professional Baseball League game between 味全ドラゴンズ and 楽天モンキーズ, 王順和 hit a game-winning triple in the 9th inning as 味全ドラゴンズ beat 楽天モンキーズ 4-1 to remain in first place. The game was interrupted by rain, but both starting pitchers turned in strong performances.
Controversy over northward relocation of Kaohsiung-Pingtung Second Expressway: campaigners question 30 billion in wasted spending and hope to return to original plan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Over the northward rerouting of Taiwan’s 高屏二快 highway, the 三和里自救会 has cited an increase in costs of about NT$30 billion and reduced effectiveness in easing traffic congestion, calling for a return to the original plan approved in 2018. 公路局 said the route was changed to avoid military bases and water intakes.
Manila holds its first summer Pride parade, drawing thousands to the streets to advocate equality
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Manila held its first “Manila Summer Pride Parade,” drawing thousands of participants. The city said it supports respect for diverse gender identities and is advancing anti-discrimination policies.
Russian airstrikes hit Ukraine's Dnipro; at least 2 dead, 21 injured and 5 missing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Ukrainian authorities said Russian airstrikes on the eastern city of Dnipro hit an apartment building, killing at least 2 people, injuring 21 and leaving 5 missing. A further 5 people may be trapped under the rubble.
Sheng Chi-shih delivers 7 scoreless innings in quality start as Brothers beat Guardians for 3 straight wins
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中信兄弟 beat 富邦悍將 1-0 for a 3rd straight win, thanks to a strong 7-inning shutout by pitcher 勝騎士. He earned his 2nd win of the season after returning from an injury last year and was named MVP.
Tainan Fine Arts Museum's overseas gleanings project: Yamaguchi forum explores cultural memory
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Preparatory Office of the Tainan National Art Museum held the “他鄉拾拾－2026年山口縣の台灣藝術與文學：台日交流論壇” in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, with more than 150 Taiwanese and Japanese scholars attending. The event is part of the “海外拾穗計畫,” which aims to rediscover Taiwanese art heritage dispersed after the war and reassess it in an international context.
The results of Taiwan’s 今彩539 lottery draw No. 115102 were announced. The winning numbers were 03, 20, 22, 33 and 21. Winning numbers for 3星彩 and 4星彩 were also released.
New Taipei Documentary Award merit selections announced, with migrant workers and space bases among diverse subjects
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
新北市政府 announced the 12 selected works for the “2026 New Taipei City Documentary Award.” The films cover a range of topics, including migrant workers, cemetery relocation, women in the anti-mining movement, a girls’ softball team and visions of space bases. Each director will receive a filming grant of 350,000 yuan.
Winter Olympic athletes' homecoming parade in Tokyo draws 50,000; RikuRyu's lift sends the crowd into a frenzy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japanese team at the Milan Winter Olympics held a homecoming parade in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district, drawing about 50,000 people. After announcing their retirement, figure skating pair 三浦璃來 and 木原龍一, known as “Rikuryu,” performed an impromptu lift to loud cheers.
Taiwan tour group bus overturns in Gansu, leaving 1 dead and 12 injured; MAC says it will provide full assistance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A vehicle carrying more than 30 Taiwanese tour group members overturned in China’s Gansu province, killing 1 person and injuring 12. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council expressed condolences to the bereaved and said it would provide full assistance with arrangements through the Straits Exchange Foundation.
Taiwan tour group involved in bus rollover in Gansu; SEF: 1 dead, 12 injured
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A tour bus carrying more than 30 Taiwanese tourists overturned in China’s Gansu province on the 24th. According to the Straits Exchange Foundation, 1 person was killed and 12 were injured; 9 people are currently hospitalized for observation.
US negotiators head to Pakistan; Iran says the sides will hold no direct talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A US negotiating team arrived in Pakistan to address the nuclear issue. Iran denied that it would hold direct talks and suggested indirect communication through Pakistan. Expectations of an end to the war are mixed with uncertainty.
AKIRA announces Taipei concert for 8/8, reinterpreting songs by EXILE
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
AKIRA announced that he will hold a solo concert in Taipei on Aug. 8. To mark the 20th anniversary of his debut, he plans to perform new interpretations of EXILE’s hit songs, accompanied by a digital EP. Tickets are already on sale.
World Taiwanese Foundation shares Taiwan's gender equality experience, deepens engagement in public health and gender issues
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
World Taiwanese Foundation hosts a forum exploring Taiwan's experience and achievements in gender equality, and announces it will participate in WHA side meetings, aiming to deepen international engagement and influence in global public health and gender issues.
Companies mentioned：世台連合基金会（STUF United Fund）、国際蘭馨交流協会中華民国総会、外交部非政府組織国際事務会
Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission chief, embroiled in allegations, replaced before leaving office
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Malaysia’s government removed Azam Baki, head of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), who had faced allegations of corruption and improper share ownership. It appointed former High Court judge Abdul Halim Aman as his successor.
TPBL's Lu Guanxuan sinks 6 three-pointers as Lioneers cruise past Mars to snap 2-game skid
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
TPBL新竹御嵿攻城獅 beat 台北台新戰神 104-86, avoiding a 2nd straight loss with shooting guard 盧冠軒’s 6 three-pointers and game-high 27 points. The team remains in contention for a playoff spot, while 盧冠軒 continues his strong run of form.
Miaoli County police officer injured in rollover accident during family trip to mainland; wife's brother dies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
潘韋頌, chief of the Miaoli County Police Department, was involved in an electric vehicle rollover while on a family trip in China’s Gansu province. 潘韋頌 and his wife were injured, while his wife’s older brother, who was traveling with them, was killed. The accident occurred on the afternoon of April 25, and the Mainland Affairs Council is providing assistance through the Straits Exchange Foundation and other organizations.
Thailand Culture Festival opens in Taipei; representative to Taiwan hopes it will serve as a bridge for exchanges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The “2026 Thai Culture Festival” was held in Taipei. Thailand’s representative to Taiwan said the festival would showcase Thai creativity through traditional clothing, AI experiences and T-Pop performances, and serve as a bridge for exchanges between Taiwan and Thailand.
Companies mentioned：遠東百貨（Far Eastern Department Store）、遠百信義A13、タイ創意経済署
April 25: Impact of the US-Iran war on the global economy, financial markets and people's livelihoods
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Concerns over oil and LNG supplies amid the Middle East conflict are accelerating the global shift in energy strategies from fossil fuels to renewable energy and nuclear power. The effects on daily life are also worsening, including surging fuel prices in South Korea and the closure of public bathhouses in Japan.
Long Chien-yu debuts in a 30-kilogram gown at her first concert; Yuan Hsiao-ti unable to appear as guest due to surgery
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Veteran singer Ron Chen-yu（龍千玉） held her first solo concert in Taichung in her 48th year since debuting. She appeared in a lavish 30-kilogram outfit and captivated 4,000 fans. 袁小迪, who had been scheduled to appear as a guest, was absent due to throat surgery.
China changes "vagrants and beggars" to "dispersed persons," drawing widespread mockery
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese government has introduced a bill to replace the term “流浪・乞食人員” (“vagrants and beggars”) with “流散人員” (“dispersed people”). Critics online have condemned it as wordplay intended to conceal reality, with barbed suggestions such as “待富人員” (“people awaiting wealth”).
Zhuang Pu solo exhibition opens in Kaohsiung, with 89 works evoking poetic resonance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Artist Zhuang Pu's "Imprint / Echo / Poetry—A Solo Exhibition by Zhuang Pu" opens at 創價美術館 in Kaohsiung, featuring 89 works, including large-scale installations. The exhibition looks back on Zhuang Pu's creative trajectory and highlights his contributions to contemporary Taiwanese art.
Lienchiang County No Smoking Cup badminton tournament: county magistrate and Matsu Defense Command chief fail to reach final
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The county governor and the commander of the Matsu Defense Command took part in the No Smoking Cup badminton tournament in Lienchiang County. Both were eliminated in the qualifying rounds, but the event served as a major sporting occasion that deepened interaction between officials and the public.
Japanese skateboarding star Yuto Horigome arrives in Taiwan, wowing fans with his tricks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Olympic gold medalist Yuto Horigome visited Taiwan and attended an event in Taipei. He wowed fans with a demonstration of his skills at Zhongshan Hall and praised Taiwan’s skateboarding culture and the warmth of its community. He also met with young athletes.
A new event from Spitz, celebrating its 35th anniversary this year: “Rokuman Festival ~SPITZ Masamune Kusano’s Rock Continent Wandering Festival~”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
To mark its 35th anniversary, Spitz will hold the “Rokuman Festival” at Ariake Arena on September 22, 2026. The event will feature Teenage Fanclub, Ride and Hitsujibungaku, marking Spitz’s first event to invite international artists.
A new event from Spitz, celebrating its 35th anniversary this year: “Rokuman Festival ~SPITZ Masamune Kusano’s Rock Continent Wandering Festival~” will be held at Ariake Arena on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, a public holiday!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Spitz will celebrate its 35th anniversary with the “Rokuman Festival” at Ariake Arena on September 22, 2026. In its first-ever effort to invite international artists, the band will perform with Teenage Fanclub, Ride and 羊文学, promoting a new challenge for the band and international exchange in the music industry. Advance ticket sales begin April 25.
New trailer released featuring the “Age of Exploration” stage, unveiled for the first time worldwide in Chronoscript: The Endless End!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shueisha Games has released a new trailer for Chronoscript: The Endless End, a new 2D exploration action-adventure game developed by DeskWorks. The trailer highlights the fields and boss battles in the “Age of Exploration” stage, which is appearing in the game for the first time, building anticipation for the title, scheduled for release in 2026.
From a sushi-training racing game to a live-action hamster reincarnation?! 講談社ゲームラボ unveils the latest PVs and new information for 4 distinctive indie games!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
At INDIE Live Expo 2026.4.25, 講談社ゲームラボ revealed the latest PVs and new information for 4 indie games: “わびさび寿司ダービー,” “トレイルレイル,” “ミスモン” and “ハムコイ.” The release platforms and timing for each title were announced, and demos for some titles are available now.
“INDIE Live Expo 2026.4.25” showcases more than 200 indie games, including 9 world premieres. Next event set for winter 2026.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The INDIE Live Expo実行委員会 announced more than 200 indie games at “INDIE Live Expo 2026.4.25,” including 9 world premieres. A related sale is underway on Steam, and the next event is scheduled for winter 2026.
That night, thirteen witches devour one another—. “ルナパルス,” a new card game from 213℉, led by FGO’s Yosuke Shiokawa, announced for release on Steam in 2027
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ファーレンハイト213株式会社, led by Yosuke Shiokawa, has announced ルナパルス, a new roguelite card game for PC. It is scheduled to launch on Steam in 2027; the first trailer and wishlist page are now live, and a campaign has also begun on X.
Live-action romance simulation “ハムコイ-ハムスターに転生した僕と三姉妹の甘々な日々” set for release on Steam and other platforms in July 2026! An unconventional collaboration game featuring popular gravure idols including Sayaka Tomaru!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
講談社 announced that the live-action romance simulation game “ハムコイ-ハムスターに転生した僕と三姉妹の甘々な日々,” a collaboration with popular gravure idols, will be released on Steam in July 2026. The game stands out for its unique premise, attention at home and abroad, and participation in Steam Next Fest.
Companies mentioned：講談社、FRIDAY、Steam、Epic Games Store、DLsite、Dexerto
Isekai work-adventure game Memory of Memorie: A Chill Story scheduled for release in summer 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ビサイド will release a new “work-adventure” game in summer 2026, in which players work alongside an apprentice mage. It offers a new experience combining a focus timer with a developing story.
Demo for the dog-search walking simulator/adventure Finding Polka, making its Steam debut, now available!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PARCO’s game label PARCO GAMES has launched a Steam demo for Finding Polka, a dog-searching walking simulator developed by lidlocks. The game features a quaint world rendered in ballpoint-pen illustrations and is scheduled for release in 2026.
Nakanojo Gardens to hold “Forest Craft Picnic” during Golden Week. 5 days to meet 48 vendors.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Young Leaves Fair” will be held for 5 days during Golden Week 2026 at Nakanojo Gardens in Gunma Prefecture. The featured “Forest Craft Picnic” has expanded its lineup to 48 businesses, 2 times last year’s number, with a variety of craft artists and food trucks appearing on different days.
[Crowdfunding begins] 40 years of connection, carried into the future. Continuing support for “water, greenery and people” on Indonesia’s Sumba Island
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
地球の友と歩む会（LIFE）, a specified nonprofit corporation, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to address poverty and water issues on Indonesia’s Sumba Island. The project aims to continue developing pumps that require no fuel and supporting sustainable agriculture, with a fundraising target of 1.5 million yen.