Northern Territory Parliament establishes first Taiwan friendship group, with cross-party support for deeper ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Northern Territory Parliament has formally established a Taiwan friendship group, chaired by Deputy Speaker Brian, with cross-party support to deepen bilateral trade, technology and cultural exchanges. Fan Houlu, head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane, said the move would strengthen support for Taiwan across Australia.
Canadian lawmakers from across party lines defy China’s threats, set out for Taiwan after Double Ten celebrations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Despite warnings from China, more than 60 Canadian lawmakers from across party lines attended a National Day reception and set out for Taiwan. They included members of the Liberal Party, Conservative Party, New Democratic Party and Bloc Québécois, and emphasized support for Taiwan’s democracy and pragmatic exchanges.
Facts
More than 60 Canadian lawmakers from across party lines
More than 400 guests from various sectors
More than 500 people at the event
Companies mentioned：中央社、環球郵報、Globe and Mail、CPTPP、WHO、ICAO
Hsu Shu-hua and Wen Shih-cheng attend events as Yuchi Township joint campaign headquarters opens
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hsu Shu-hua, the KMT Nantou County magistrate seeking re-election, and Wang Jo-lan, a candidate for Yuchi Township chief, have established a joint campaign headquarters. Wen Shih-cheng, the DPP’s candidate for Nantou County magistrate, meanwhile visited volunteer firefighters during training and helped seek funding.
More than 130,000 Malaysian alumni who studied in Taiwan; Lien Yu-ping calls them a valuable asset for Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Federation of Malaysian Alumni Associations of Taiwan held its 52nd anniversary celebration. Taiwan’s representative to Malaysia, Lien Yu-ping, said more than 130,000 alumni had gone to Taiwan to study, adding that Taiwan is a global leader in advanced chips, servers and smart manufacturing and is an important force supporting global AI development.
Sanae Takaichi criticized for missing G7 video meeting; opposition worries Japan’s international profile will suffer
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi missed a G7 video meeting, with Kazunari Endo, a deputy vice-minister for foreign affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attending in her place. Opposition parties criticized the decision and voiced concern that it could hurt Japan’s international profile.
Facts
The Group of Seven (G7) leaders’ video meeting held on the 2nd
Lasting about 30 minutes
Started at 9:30 p.m. Japan time on the 2nd
Sanae Takaichi wrote on social media platform X on the 5th, emphasizing
Takaichi was at the prime minister’s official residence at around 6:30 p.m. that day
Attendees left the official residence one after another before 8 p.m.
Komeito leader Mitsunari Okamoto told reporters on the 7th
Democratic Reform Association secretary-general Takeshi Shina criticized the move at a news conference on the 6th
India’s “Cockroach Movement” leaders released; opposition vows to take to the streets again on 10/12
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Dipak, founder of India’s “Cockroach Movement,” and 3 other leaders have been released. The opposition has vowed to take to the streets again on 10/12.
Foreign Ministry urges Beijing to recognize that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other and stop malicious attacks that heighten tensions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to President Lai’s National Day address, the Foreign Ministry urged Beijing to recognize the fact that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other, and to stop malicious attacks and military coercion to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
National Day gala hosted by 駐科威特代表處 uses bridge theme to deepen Taiwan-Kuwait friendship
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
駐科威特代表處 hosted a National Day gala themed around a “bridge” to symbolize Taiwan-Kuwait friendship. More than 100 guests attended, and models of Taiwanese landmarks, including the Tamkang Bridge and Taipei 101, were on display to deepen exchanges in technology, education and human rights.
Facts
115 National Day gala
Attracted more than 100 guests
Held 2 teacher training courses related to the International Chemistry Olympiad
Helped 10 Kuwaiti trainees travel to Taiwan for semiconductor training
Since taking up the post in May 2025
Also provided assistance in August 2025
Co-hosted with 科威特人權協會 in December 2025
A 3D-printed model of “Taipei 101” about 160 centimeters tall
Freehand climb of Taipei 101 in January 2026
Companies mentioned：中央社、駐科威特代表處、台科友好協會、科威特薩巴赫天賦與創造力中心、Sabah Al-Ahmad Center for Giftedness and Creativity、SACGC、科威特人權協會
Aftershocks continue following Panama’s 7.7 earthquake; shaken residents begin recovery
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck southern Panama, followed by continued aftershocks. Frightened residents have begun recovery efforts. No deaths have been reported, about 30 people suffered minor injuries, and the presidential office declared a state of emergency to expedite the management of humanitarian relief supplies.
Facts
The powerful earthquake measured 7.7.
More than a hundred aftershocks have been recorded so far
Some reached magnitude 6.0
Chitré, about 250 kilometers southwest of the capital, Panama City
The city of Macaracas has a population of about 66,000
The first earthquake’s epicenter was 60 kilometers away
Panama City is more than 200 kilometers from the epicenter of this earthquake
Romanian company to invest 280 million in AI data center; power supply poses challenge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Romanian IT company Expert IT plans to build an AI data center in Reghin, in the Transylvania region, with an initial investment of more than 8 million euros. It is expected to come online before the end of this year. The high power consumption of AI model training makes a stable electricity supply a major challenge. Meanwhile, projects involving AI and data centers are also underway in other parts of Romania, including those by DriverAI and Leviatan Group.
Facts
Initial investment of more than 8 million euros
The initial investment includes 7 servers
Equipped with 56 high-performance NVIDIA B300 graphics processors
Could add another 512 GPUs in the future
The overall development project is worth about 10 million euros
The site covers about 1.7 hectares
First-phase investment of about $1 billion
An investment of about 45 million euros is planned
Construction of a facility covering about 1,700 square meters
Total funding of about 11.2 million euros
Eventually capable of accommodating more than 100,000 AI processors
Companies mentioned：中央社、Expert IT、每日新聞匈牙利、Daily News Hungary、NVIDIA、DriverAI、Leviatan Group
Cognitive warfare launched around Double Ten National Day; sources say 中共 aims to spread doubts about the U.S. and claims Taiwan will be abandoned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Sources said 中共 combined diplomatic messaging with an emotional appeal to wage cognitive warfare around Double Ten National Day, aiming to spread doubts about the U.S. and claims that Taiwan will be abandoned. 國防部 and the armed forces took the initiative to counter the campaign through National Day videos, military history features and channels including “Juguang Garden” and the “Youth Daily News,” defending Taiwan’s sovereignty and historical legitimacy.
Japanese singer 優里 wrapped up 2 concerts at Taipei Arena last night, thanking fans for not attending Korean group BIGBANG’s concert and jokingly singing one of their songs; CNBLUE drummer Kang Min-hyuk danced energetically to 伍佰’s song “妳是我的花朵” at a fan meeting, amusing fans.
Taoyuan’s old town streets to be revamped for pedestrians; Success Road’s trees preserved, with completion targeted for 116年
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taoyuan City Government’s Department of Urban Development has launched a pedestrian-friendly street improvement project on Success Road, widening sidewalks to 5.6 meters while preserving roadside trees. The project is expected to be completed in February 116年 and will connect several roads to form the first phase of a pedestrian-friendly street network in the old town.
Taiwanese travel to China for cosmetic procedures; Shanghai doctor warns that strong marketing can mask risks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Shanghai cosmetic medicine doctor surnamed Lin said Taiwanese seeking cosmetic procedures in China may benefit from lower prices and aggressive marketing, but face risks including information asymmetry, unclear doctor qualifications and difficulties with post-operative recovery. Lin advised patients to verify doctors’ and clinics’ credentials.
Novel fan teaches himself to imitate tomb raiders; Chinese court sentences him to 12 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中國大陸最高法院 released details of cultural relic crime cases. A suspect surnamed Yu, obsessed with tomb-raiding novels, taught himself the techniques and recruited others to commit the crimes. He excavated an Eastern Zhou-period tomb and stole 23 artifacts, receiving a 12-year prison sentence and a fine.
Facts
Sentenced to 12 years in prison
6 typical cases involving punishment for cultural relic crimes
In 2023, he twice reached agreements with others to excavate ancient tombs together
Stole 23 artifacts, including an inscribed bronze dagger-axe, jade ornaments, a bronze pot and a bronze tripod
“2026 Hengshan Art Festival” opens, transforming an old military camp into a collaborative creative hub
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The former Hengshan military camp in Yanchao, Kaohsiung, has been transformed into the “Hengshan Co-Creation Base.” The “2026 Hengshan Art Festival” opened yesterday, featuring a fine woodworking exhibition and award-winning design competition entries. 青年局 said the exhibition will continue during regular opening hours.
Venezuela lifts ban, allowing 星鏈 to operate in the country
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Venezuela’s National Telecommunications Commission (Conatel) has approved Elon Musk’s 星鏈（Starlink） to operate in the country and issued 7 permits to a subsidiary of 美國太空探索科技公司（SpaceX）, lifting a ban imposed under former President Nicolás Maduro.
台塑石化: Gasoline and diesel prices unchanged from the 12th
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台塑石化 announced that gasoline and diesel prices will remain unchanged from 1 a.m. on October 12, marking the 4th consecutive week without a price adjustment.
Facts
1 a.m. on October 12
92-octane unleaded gasoline at NT$31.2 per liter
95+ unleaded gasoline at NT$32.7 per liter
98-octane unleaded gasoline at 34.7 yuan per liter
National Day speech sparks controversy; Han Kuo-yu jokes he has been looking a little pale lately but is being smeared again
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu’s National Day speech sparked controversy. Appearing alongside Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an today, he joked that he had been looking paler lately but was immediately being smeared again, and campaigned for Chiang. Party and government figures criticized him for turning National Day into a political attack platform.
Taipei Metro adds 29 train trips; ridership hits National Day record of 2.13 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台北捷運公司 said multiple events on Double Ten National Day drove demand, prompting 29 additional train trips systemwide. Total ridership reached 2.13 million, setting a new National Day record.
Facts
Added 29 train trips
Ridership reached 2.13 million
Nearly 90 support personnel mobilized
Attracted about 37,000 spectators
Relieved congestion by about 37 minutes
Exits and entries reached 84,000 passenger trips, respectively
Study: Broccoli grown under magenta solar panels matures later but has similar nutritional value
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A study by Sweden's 梅拉達倫大學 found that broccoli grown under magenta solar panels matured 25 days later, but had broadly similar nutrient levels. Taiwanese scholars said the study provides a scientific framework for assessing the integrated use of land in Taiwan.
Kiyofumi Iwata: Taiwan and Japan are interdependent in semiconductors; defense cooperation should focus on dual-use items
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kiyofumi Iwata, former chief of staff of Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force, said Taiwan and Japan have a highly complementary, interdependent relationship in the semiconductor sector. In the face of China's coercion, he recommended that the two countries focus defense cooperation on dual-use components and materials to ensure compatibility and avoid political friction.
Facts
2026 Taiwan-Japan Technology Futures Forum
Yonaguni Island, just about 110 kilometers from Taiwan
President Lai accompanies Eswatini king to Army Flight Training Command, seeking to strengthen bilateral ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai Ching-te accompanied King Mswati III of Eswatini on a visit to 陸軍飛行訓練指揮部, where they tried a simulator and a Black Hawk helicopter, in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties and future cooperation.
Huang Kuo-chang echoes Han Kuo-yu's National Day speech, hoping President Lai and Premier Cho will heed his advice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang echoed Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu's National Day speech, urging President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai to heed his advice. Ko Wen-je attended the founding rally for Hsinchu County mayoral candidate Chiu Chen-yuan's campaign headquarters, discussing semiconductor economic security and the delivery of F-16V fighter jets.
Congratulations on completing the 令和8年 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination! Our review will be published later today! We’ll also share sample answer plans tomorrow.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 announced that it will publish its review and sample answer plans for the 令和8年 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination on October 11 and 12, and hold a free online event on October 13.
uka Moon study 26/Oct, arriving with the full moon: advance reservations now open!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Beauty company uka began taking advance orders on October 11 for “uka Moon study 26/Oct,” which goes on sale October 26, and for a full moon starter set available exclusively through its official online store.
[Event Report] Online briefing for transportation and logistics companies: “Practical know-how that drove sales from 300 million to 1 billion yen.” Additional session scheduled for Tuesday, October 20 | 株式会社船井総研サプライチェーンコンサルティング
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社船井総研サプライチェーンコンサルティング held a free online briefing for transportation and logistics companies, sharing know-how on surpassing 1 billion yen in sales, and announced an additional session on October 20, 2026.
Facts
Practical know-how that drove sales from 300 million to 1 billion yen
Original売上10億円の壁を突破するための具体的なノウハウ
The essentials of management methods studied by 400 companies nationwide
[Event Report] “Saraba no Kono Hon Dare ga Kaiton-nen! LIVE”: Nishino Akihiro dominates! Higashi Bukuro captivated by his whirlwind business talk? On the edge: discussing Minato Ward women, celebrity scandals and the latest gossip with Minowa Kousuke | Available for a limited time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The live event “LIVE2026” for TV Osaka’s program “Saraba no Kono Hon Dare ga Kaiton-nen!” was held on October 10 at Asakusa Public Hall in Tokyo. Topics included business theories from Nishino Akihiro, a talk by a former associate of the yakuza, and scandal gossip from Minowa Kousuke.
Facts
Program’s official YouTube channel subscribers: 421,000
This is the third time
A total of 2000 venue tickets
Catering was 1/100 of what is provided at a solo live show
Surpassed 120,000 copies within six months of release
2026 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination: “Topic Analysis” to be held. Sample plans and reference answers available free, with a points briefing session also scheduled
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社建築資料研究社（日建学院） will publish a “concise sample plan,” offer a free download of a “sketch plan sample,” and mail a “sample answer” free of charge after the 2026 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination. It will also hold a briefing session on key points.
令和8年度 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination: Launch of the “Free Access to Original Sample Answers” service, a support initiative for examinees!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社総合資格 has launched its “Free Access to Original Sample Answers” service for candidates taking the 令和8年度 First-Class Architect Design and Drafting Examination and will also run a poll on X.
Facts
52.6% of successful candidates
Total number of successful candidates nationwide: 35,869
Students enrolled at our academy: 18,878
59.2% of candidates who passed on their first try
Total number of candidates nationwide who passed on their first try: 14,345
Gomumari’s business AI agent, “Payroll Calculation Check,” now available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ゴムマリ株式会社 will launch its “Payroll Calculation Check AI Agent,” designed to check payroll calculations, on October 11, 2026. Initial setup costs start at 200,000 yen, and monthly operation starts at 30,000 yen. It is designed to run alongside existing processes.
Facts
Launching on October 11, 2026
Introduction starts from 200,000 yen for initial design
＝LOVE to perform at “STAR Fes,” the first major live event for フジテレビ’s new music program “STAR,” held at Pia Arena MM!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Idol group ＝LOVE will perform at “STAR Fes,” the first major live event for フジテレビ’s new music program “STAR.” The group’s latest single, “Koi, Hajimemashita,” reached No. 1 on オリコン, and its streaming plays have surpassed 220 million.
Facts
A total of 220 million streaming plays
The total number of plays on TikTok has also reached 2.3 billion
Assess and design UI/UX and consider prototypes under different conditions. Fishilcom revamps its estimation simulator, allowing users to enter the number of screens and research participants
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
フィシルコム株式会社 has revamped its UI/UX improvement cost estimation simulator, enabling users to check estimates under different conditions based on the number of screens and research participants.
株式会社ネイティブキャンプ has added a new lesson, “Multilingualism: A Key Skill in Modern Football,” to the “Daily News” materials on its online English conversation service, ネイティブキャンプ. The lesson focuses on multilingual communication in soccer.
Facts
Instructors from more than 140 countries around the world
A family plan for 1,980 yen (tax included) that the whole family can use
More than 15,000 instructors offering a rich variety from around the world
令和8年度 Real Estate Transaction Agent exam: answer速報! We’ll announce the predicted correct answers for all questions and the estimated passing score on a YouTube livestream starting at 16:10 on exam day!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TAC株式会社 has announced that it will stream an answer速報 for the 令和8年度 Real Estate Transaction Agent exam on YouTube Live and offer an online scoring and analysis service.
[あみやき亭 Chubu-area locations] Weekday half-price fair! A great deal available on weekdays only! A location-exclusive “Weekday Half-Price Fair” will offer half off all 10 popular yakiniku menu items. Don’t miss this opportunity!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社あみやき亭 will hold a “Weekday Half-Price Fair” at 5 locations in the Chubu area from October 19 through 30, 2026, offering half off 10 popular yakiniku menu items.
Launching “ぶいれぽ,” a web media outlet documenting the “now” of the virtual world
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ルナリアアセットマネジメント合同会社 launched “ぶいれぽ,” a web media outlet focused on VR and virtual worlds, particularly VRChat, on June 30, 2026. The outlet, associated with ユーステラグループホールディングス合同会社, covers the culture of virtual spaces and people’s activities through on-the-ground reporting and original research.
Did Han Kuo-yu's unscripted National Day speech turn defense into offense? Li Yi-hsiu calls it a 'shot in the arm' for the KMT: The higher the DPP once lifted him, the harder the fall
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu delivered an unscripted speech at the National Day ceremony, sharply criticizing the current political climate and problems with the constitutional system. Commentator Li Yi-hsiu said the move projected an image of 'leading the charge in person,' dispelled the opposition's gloom and used accumulated political capital to counter the Democratic Progressive Party. He predicted it would strengthen the Kuomintang's appeal and unite the opposition camp.
Facts
Han Kuo-yu questioned the premier's refusal to countersign bills passed by the Legislative Yuan, saying this would become a negative example in constitutional studies.
Current affairs commentator Li Yi-hsiu said Han Kuo-yu's speech had the effect of 'leading the charge in person' and could boost the opposition's momentum.
Li Yi-hsiu said Han Kuo-yu's speech eclipsed the media attention generated by Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang.
Li Yi-hsiu said Han Kuo-yu had built up considerable political capital and would use it to strike back at the DPP, which had long 'praised Han.'
Shen Po-yang calls for 'cross-examination' in debate! On Chiang Wan-an: 'I could recite the scripts on fresh milk for students and the Dome by heart now'
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei mayoral candidates Chiang Wan-an and Shen Po-yang are negotiating the terms of a debate hosted by TVBS. Chiang's team confirmed it would attend, while Shen insists on a cross-examination format and questions the repetitiveness of his rival's talking points. The two sides remain at odds over their approach to negotiations and the debate format.
Facts
Chiang Wan-an said his campaign team would definitely attend negotiations for the debate hosted by TVBS.
Shen Po-yang wants the debate to include 'cross-examination'; otherwise, he considers it a platform for presenting policy positions.
Shen Po-yang signed a debate consent form in August.
Chiang Wan-an's campaign office criticized Shen Po-yang's team for refusing to take part in negotiations for the first debate.
Major new 台鐵 rules! Nationwide changes to train rides and ticket purchases; a guide to the non-reserved-seat ticket rules
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
To handle the northbound crowds during the National Day holiday, 台鐵 announced that non-reserved tickets would be available on the new Tze-Chiang Limited Express trains and that additional services would be added. The early-booking restriction on university student discounts will also be scrapped, replaced by fixed discounts through 2027, and rules for verifying student status will be revised.
Facts
On the final day of the National Day holiday, 26 EMU3000 Tze-Chiang Limited Express services on 台鐵's eastern and western trunk lines and cross-line routes will each offer a limited 200 non-reserved tickets.
台鐵 will scrap the early-booking restriction on university student discounts and introduce a fixed discount for each train service—5折, 7折 or 8折—through Aug. 16, 2027.
To make transfers between 高鐵 and 台鐵 more convenient, 台鐵 plans to add stops for 6 new Tze-Chiang Limited Express services at Xinwuri Station.
台鐵 apologized in a statement over disputes involving students who were fined for having to buy tickets during the gap before school registration, and announced revised rules for determining and verifying student status.
Passengers with non-reserved tickets may stand only in designated cars; using an electronic ticket card to tap in and board is prohibited.
First public execution in the US in 90 years? Fort Hood shooter to face firing squad in livestream; Trump says final decision is his
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The US Department of Defense announced that Hasan, the perpetrator of the Fort Hood shooting, will be executed by firing squad on Dec. 3, with the execution livestreamed. The plan drew opposition from lawmakers in both parties and the United Nations, while Trump reserved the final decision for himself.
Facts
The US Department of War announced that former Army Major Hasan will be executed by firing squad on Dec. 3, with the execution livestreamed.
If the plan goes ahead, it would be the first public execution in the United States since the 1930s.
The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said livestreaming an execution violates the prohibition on torture.
The 2009 shooting by Hasan left 13 people dead and more than 30 injured.
In a hurry to check in at your hotel? Expert says to check the room number first: Watch out for 'these last digits'—it's not superstition, they can really cause problems
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Travel expert Amir Sudra warns that hotel rooms ending in '01' may be near elevators and subject to noise. He recommends avoiding certain areas when choosing a room and promptly reporting any noise issues early in the stay to seek a room change.
Facts
Travel expert Amir Sudra says hotel rooms ending in '01' are usually near elevators or corridor exits and are prone to noise.
Soundproofing in hotels housed in historic European buildings may be less effective than in modern buildings. Late-night returning guests or cleaning staff in rooms near elevators or stairwells may be sources of noise.
When choosing a room, check whether it is near areas such as an ice machine, a housekeeping supply closet, a service elevator, a bar, a restaurant, a gym or a conference room.
If you find early in your stay that your room is near an elevator or is noisy, reporting it to the front desk promptly gives you a better chance of help with a room change than waiting until you have settled in or until the next day.
Travel expert Amir Sudra is from Europe Private Tours.
Kaohsiung's 100,000 trees could be cut down! 83-year-old 'Forest Grandma' goes to Presidential Office to petition; Su Yi-feng asks: Where are the Greenbirds?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
83-year-old “Forest Grandma” Chiang Huang-nu, seeking to protect the hundred-hectare forest at Kaohsiung’s Qiaotou Sugar Factory, ran for city council and petitioned at the Presidential Office, drawing a sarcastic jibe from doctor Su Yi-feng, who accused her of applying a double standard as a “Greenbird.”
Facts
83-year-old Chiang Huang-nu decided to run for Kaohsiung City Council to save the hundred-hectare forest and 100,000 trees at Qiaotou Sugar Factory in Kaohsiung.
Chiang Huang-nu traveled north to petition outside the Presidential Office on Oct. 10, asking President Lai Ching-te to designate the area as a national urban forest demonstration zone.
Doctor Su Yi-feng posted on Facebook, questioning why the “Greenbirds,” who previously criticized tree felling in Taipei, were staying silent over forest development controversy in Kaohsiung.
Chiang Huang-nu worked at Qiaotou Sugar Factory in Kaohsiung for more than 20 years.
Tree-protection groups prepared a cake to celebrate Chiang Huang-nu’s birthday on National Day, Oct. 10, which is also her birthday.
This report covers several important developments affecting daily life and transportation in Taiwan in mid-October. Ahead of the Chongyang Festival, Taoyuan, New Taipei and Tainan will begin distributing senior-citizen gift money from the 13th to the 14th, while Taipei will require recipients to collect it in person at designated locations. Meanwhile, the new Tainan Station building of 台鐵 will open on the 17th, with construction work affecting some train services beforehand. In addition, 永豐銀行 is changing its security measures for cardless withdrawals, renovation of Bangka Park has been completed and it is reopening, 台積電 is set to hold an earnings conference, and the National Games will open in Taoyuan.
Facts
Taoyuan City will deposit its Chongyang Festival senior-citizen gift money directly into older residents’ accounts starting Oct. 13.
Phase 1 of Tainan’s railway undergrounding project will enter service on Oct. 17, and the new Tainan Station building will open.
Starting Oct. 13, 永豐銀行 will shorten the validity period of cardless withdrawal codes from 30 minutes to 5 minutes.
台積電 will hold its third-quarter earnings conference on Oct. 15.
The in-competition events of the 115 National Games will be held at the Taoyuan Arena from Oct. 17 to 22.
Just struck a diesel deal with Putin, and now Trump has officially turned on him: Ukraine should get a new president!
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U.S. President Trump publicly called on Ukraine to replace President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the 10th, blaming attacks by Ukrainian forces on Russian oil refineries for soaring U.S. diesel prices. The previous day, Trump had reached a diesel deal with Putin and lifted sanctions on Russia. The move was seen as a major betrayal of Kyiv, further weakening Ukraine’s negotiating position.
Facts
Speaking to the media on the White House South Lawn, Trump said he thought it was time for Ukraine to get a new president.
Do you support raising the universal cash handout to 20,000? It will go straight to a second reading on 10/16; latest online poll shows overwhelming support
The Ministry of Finance plans to deposit the 10,000 cash handout by Jan. 26 next year at the earliest.
The KMT caucus in the Legislative Yuan has proposed a bill for a 20,000 cash handout, which could go straight to a second reading as early as Oct. 16.
A Yahoo Taiwan online poll found that 65.8% of participants support a handout of at least 20,000.
The Executive Yuan opposes increasing the universal cash handout, concerned that it would add to the government’s borrowing burden.
The KMT says its proposal for a universal 20,000 handout is intended to let everyone share in the benefits of growth in AI and the technology industry.
Taiwan has 1600 illegal lodging businesses! Tourism Administration releases blacklist; check in one click whether your hotel is operating illegally
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications released inspection results for the first 3 quarters of 2026, finding 1600 illegal lodging businesses across Taiwan and fines totaling more than 140 million yuan. Taipei had the most illegal hotels, while Pingtung County had the most illegal B&Bs. Officials urged the public to verify that accommodations are legally registered before booking.
Facts
From January to September 2026, Taiwan had 1600 illegal lodging businesses, with penalties totaling about 143 million yuan.
The number of illegal hotels rose by 132 from the same period last year, bringing the total to 1068.
Taipei had the most illegal hotels, with 275, all of them daily-rental suites.
Pingtung County had the most illegal B&Bs, with 127.
The number of illegal B&Bs fell by 41 from the same period last year, to 532.
Shen Po-yang calls for “at least 4 debates”! Chiang Wan-an fires back: More debates don’t mean you’ll win
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei mayoral candidates Shen Po-yang and Chiang Wan-an disagree over the number of televised policy debates, with Shen calling for at least 4 and Chiang emphasizing quality over quantity. The two sides have agreed to a debate hosted by TVBS and will negotiate the details on Monday.
Facts
Shen Po-yang handed Chiang Wan-an a debate invitation at Wanhua Guangzhao Temple, calling for 4 debates.
The two sides have agreed to hold a debate hosted by TVBS and signed a letter of consent.
Shen Po-yang signed invitations to debates hosted by 民視, 三立 and 鏡電視.
Chiang Wan-an’s campaign team will attend Monday’s meeting to negotiate the details of the debate.
Lu Shiow-yen crosses party lines to lead the ticket! Named honorary chair of TPP councilor Chiang Ho-shu’s campaign headquarters
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The campaign headquarters of Chiang Ho-shu, a TPP Taichung city councilor, has been established. Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, crossing party lines, has taken the role of honorary chair, while KMT candidate Chiang Chi-chen has also voiced support, highlighting a blue-white cooperation atmosphere.
Facts
The campaign headquarters of TPP Taichung city councilor Chiang Ho-shu was established on the 11th.
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen is serving as honorary chair of Chiang Ho-shu’s campaign headquarters.
This is the first time in her 30 years in politics that Lu Shiow-yen has served as honorary chair of a campaign team outside the KMT.
KMT Taichung mayoral candidate Chiang Chi-chen pledged to support Chiang Ho-shu’s shopping festival.
TPP Secretary-General Chou Yu-hsiu took part in the entire event marking the establishment of Chiang Ho-shu’s campaign headquarters.
Mayoral race turns to national identity! Shen Po-yang extends National Day wishes; Chiang Wan-an demands: “Make your position on the Republic of China clear”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei mayoral candidate Chiang Wan-an questioned DPP candidate Shen Po-yang for wishing the Republic of China a happy birthday on National Day, given that Shen previously described it as a “quasi-colonial system.” Chiang called on Shen to clearly state his position on the Republic of China.
Facts
Chiang Wan-an questioned Shen Po-yang for previously describing the Republic of China as a “quasi-colonial system” and now offering National Day greetings, and called on him to clarify his position.
In 2014, Shen Po-yang posted that the Republic of China was a “quasi-colonial system.”
Chiang Wan-an stressed that he is Taiwanese and a citizen of the Republic of China, and firmly defends the Republic of China.
Chiang Wan-an’s campaign office criticized Shen Po-yang’s change in stance as political packaging for votes.
Chiang Wan-an believes the Republic of China is the most important foundation of Taiwan’s democracy, freedom and rule of law.
Japan Komeito secretary-general says “Japan recognized Taiwan’s return to China”! Conservatives including Haruo Kitamura denounce him for being loyal to the CCP and fabricating history
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Komeito Secretary-General Sansei Nishida claimed during questioning in the House of Councillors that Japan had recognized Taiwan’s return to China, provoking a strong backlash from conservatives. Ryusho Kadota, Haruo Kitamura and others denounced him for fabricating history and being loyal to the CCP, while social media users also condemned the claim as an act of treason.
Facts
During a representative question at a House of Councillors plenary session on the 9th, Komeito Secretary-General Sansei Nishida argued that Japan had recognized Taiwan’s return to China under the Japan-China Joint Communique.
Writer and veteran media figure Ryusho Kadota pointed out that the People’s Republic of China had not even been founded when the Potsdam Declaration was issued, and questioned whether a party that helped China fabricate history had any reason to exist.
Japan Conservative Party House of Councillors member Haruo Kitamura angrily asked just how loyal Sansei Nishida intended to be to the Chinese Communist Party.
Kobe City assembly member Hirohiro Uehata of the Liberal Democratic Party denounced Sansei Nishida as a traitor acting in the interests of an enemy state and serving as a mouthpiece for the authoritarian state of China.
Sansei Nishida cited the joint statement from the Sept. 22 Japan-U.S.-South Korea foreign ministers’ meeting and asked whether the government considered Taiwan independence a unilateral change to the status quo and opposed it.
Yang Wen-ke backs Hsu Hsin-ying and Wu Hsu-chih in ushering in a new chapter, hoping for Hsinchu County to carry its happiness forward
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
At a National Day event held by a labor support group, KMT Hsinchu County chapter chair Yang Wen-ke voiced support for Hsu Hsin-ying, a candidate for county magistrate, and Wu Hsu-chih, a candidate for Zhubei mayor, calling on all sides to unite and build on the county’s governance.
Facts
Yang Wen-ke attended a labor support event representing workers from all trades and industries in Zhubei on National Day, and voiced support for Hsu Hsin-ying and Wu Hsu-chih.
Original新竹縣府預算規模從上任初期的約286億元成長至今年的約475億元。
Hsinchu County has 165 labor-related unions, with about 67,000 union members.
The Hsinchu County Central Library is expected to begin trial operations by the end of October.
Taiwan as a “City on a Hill”: What message did Lai Ching-te seek to convey in his Double Ten speech?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
In his 115 Double Tenth address, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te used “A City upon a Hill” as its theme, responding to U.S.-China interactions and emphasizing the need to face the history of World War II. His cross-strait wording was more conciliatory, with the focus shifting to domestic economic achievements and investment in strategic industries, in a bid to maintain stable Taiwan-U.S. relations with Washington.
Facts
In his Double Tenth address, Lai Ching-te invoked the Christian Bible’s concept of “A City upon a Hill,” positioning Taiwan as a key force for safeguarding peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Lai Ching-te for disregarding facts and distorting right and wrong, and reiterated the one-China principle and that Taiwan’s future is to be decided by all the Chinese people.
Mailiao Wangchuan Cultural Festival opens; the “Double Mazu” meet for the first time in four hundred years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The Mazu palanquin from 苗栗拱天宮 traveled to Mailiao, Yunlin, where it met the founding Mazu palanquin from 麥寮拱範宮 for the first time during the “Mailiao Wangchuan Cultural Festival.” The 2 Mazu palanquins then proceeded together to 麥寮鄉公所, where they stopped as the township chief set off firecrackers to bless the procession.
Linkou man flees police stop for 5 kilometers before losing control and hitting police car; drugs found
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A man in Linkou fled a police stop for 5 kilometers before losing control and hitting a police car, and officers found drugs. Separately, police in Banqiao raided a drug-manufacturing site and arrested suspects. Statistics show drug seizures rose significantly in 2025 compared with the previous year, and scholars recommend tighter controls on chemicals.
Facts
3 suspects arrested for drug production and trafficking
Arrested after fleeing for 2 hours
The 60-year-old driver ignored police
More than 18,000 kilograms of drugs seized last year (2025)
A marked increase from more than 8,500 kilograms the year before
He was also heavily fined under the law for his 24 traffic violations
Japan-Taiwan Friendship Alliance visits Taiwan for National Day; Koji Furuya urges international community to safeguard peace in Taiwan Strait
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A delegation led by Koji Furuya, chair of the Japan-Taiwan Friendship Legislators’ Alliance, visited Taiwan to attend the Double Tenth National Day celebrations and urged international cooperation to safeguard peace in the Taiwan Strait. Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu sounded a warning at the National Day celebration, while Japanese Upper House member Shih Ping opposed describing Taiwan as a place that could be annexed by another country.
Shen Po-yang wants 4 debates with cross-examination; Chiang Wan-an: More rounds don’t mean you’ll win
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang wants at least 4 debates with his opponent, Chiang Wan-an, including cross-examination. Chiang said the key issue is whether debates can be held, not how many, and called on both sides to attend TVBS’s debate talks on Monday.
On the 58th anniversary of diplomatic ties with Taiwan, Eswatini king makes his 20th visit with a delegation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
On the 58th anniversary of diplomatic ties with Taiwan, Eswatini King Mswati III made his 20th visit to Taiwan with a delegation. President Lai Ching-te thanked Taiwan’s armed forces for helping train Eswatini pilots and maintenance personnel, and invited the king to experience a Black Hawk helicopter flight, expressing hope that the transfer of expertise would help meet the challenges of natural disasters.
National Day fireworks spark fire in Puyuma River wetland; conservation groups worry about ecological impact
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
National Day fireworks were set off at the mouth of the Puyuma River in Taitung, drawing more than 50,000 spectators and featuring a sea-based viewing tour for the first time. A few fires and an incident in which a member of the public fell into the river occurred during the event. Conservation groups are concerned about the impact on wetland ecology, and the county government has stepped up its watch and firefighting efforts.
Facts
Continued firing 15,000 fireworks
A total of 30 minutes
More than 50,000 people flocked to the event
About 1 kilometer from the fireworks launch site
Peak volume reached 90 decibels
All 500 spots were filled
Deployed 133 police officers and volunteer firefighters
Last day of the National Day long weekend; congestion already reported on sections of northbound National Freeway 5
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
On the final day of the National Day long weekend, crowds returning home were seen at Taipei Main Station. 高公局 forecast congestion on northbound National Freeway 5 from 10 a.m. and warned that several other sections were prone to traffic jams, advising drivers to set off early.
Putin relays Iran’s ceasefire proposal to Trump! Russia pledges more than 4 million tons of diesel, U.S. pauses sanctions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Russian President Vladimir Putin relayed Iran’s proposal to end the war to U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump announced that Russia would supply more than 4 million additional tons of diesel, while the U.S. Treasury Department simultaneously paused sanctions until April 2027, in a bid to ease pressure on energy prices.
Facts
Putin relays Iran’s proposal to end the war to Trump
Russia to supply more than 4 million tons of diesel to global markets
U.S. Treasury Department pauses sanctions on Russian diesel until April 2027
Putin and Iranian President Pezeshkian reach consensus
Iranian Revolutionary Guard official says illegal routes through the Strait of Hormuz will be blocked
Trump tells Zelensky to “stop bombing” Russian refineries! Says Ukraine “needs a new president”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A U.S.-Russia diesel supply agreement has heightened tensions in U.S.-Ukraine relations, with Trump urging Ukrainian forces to stop attacking Russian refineries and suggesting Ukraine replace its president. Zelensky criticized the United States for betraying Ukraine and turned to European leaders for support and coordination on sanctions.
Facts
U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to stop attacking Russian refineries and suggested that Ukraine replace its president.
The U.S. Treasury Department announced it was easing sanctions on Russian diesel trade, citing the need to alleviate domestic supply tightness.
Zelensky was disappointed by the U.S.-Russia diesel supply agreement, saying he felt “betrayed.”
On the 10th, Zelensky spoke by phone with the leaders of Finland, France, Norway and the United Kingdom to coordinate responses.
Trump said he was satisfied with the agreement reached with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Copper prices near record high! 瑞銀 warns supply deficit will last into the early 2030s; Deutsche Bank targets $22,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
London copper prices are nearing record highs, with 瑞銀, 摩根大通 and Deutsche Bank warning of a supply-demand imbalance. Driven by electrification demand and mine strikes, 瑞銀 expects the supply deficit to last into the 2030s, while Deutsche Bank raised its target price to $22,050.
Facts
London copper futures closed at about $14,622 per metric ton on Friday, near a record high.
瑞銀 expects the global copper supply deficit to continue into the early 2030s.
Original德意志銀行將倫敦銅期貨2027年第二季目標價上調至每公噸22,050美元。
A strike broke out at the Centinela copper mine in Chile, owned by Antofagasta, potentially leading to reduced production for two weeks.
Global copper inventories have fallen to unprecedented lows, partly because of continued stockpiling by the United States and China.
圓祥生技 (6945): Announcement on the execution status at the end of the company’s share buyback period
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公開資訊觀測站
圓祥生技 (6945) announced the execution status at the end of its share buyback period. It repurchased 1,827,000 shares for a total of 234,919,401 yuan, and did not complete the full buyback after taking fund utilization into consideration.
Facts
Original planned maximum total amount for share buyback (NT$):1,143,569,155
Original planned number of shares to be repurchased (shares):2,000,000
Number of shares repurchased to date (shares):1,827,000
Total amount of shares repurchased to date (NT$):234,919,401
Average repurchase price per share to date (NT$):128.58
台灣自來水公司 issued a water outage alert for Guanyin District, Taoyuan City, due to emergency repairs for a water pipe leak on Wenhua Road, Kengwei Village, affecting Sanhe Village and Kengwei Village. The outage is in effect from 2026年10月11日12:24 to 19:30.