Reported 9 months ago
As the COVID-19 pandemic resurges, there is a continuous increase in confirmed cases in Taiwan. Hospitals in New Taipei City, such as the Shuang Ho Hospital and the Asia University Hospital, are facing full capacity with patients, especially those with COVID-19. The New Taipei Union Hospital is experiencing an increase in patient volume, particularly with COVID-19 cases, resulting in the rapid depletion of antiviral drugs. They are awaiting government procurement to restock, while also strengthening infection control measures.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
As summer approached on June 26, 2024, flu and COVID-19 entered their peak seasons with a high number of infections. Scholars attribute this to transmission in air-conditioned spaces and many people not wearing masks, advising to take preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and mask-wearing. Experts warn about the spread of LΒ.1 variant in Taiwan, stressing the importance of vaccination, especially for the elderly population with chronic conditions, as well as the need to maintain personal protective measures. Thus, the public is urged to consider wearing masks, especially when visiting hospitals or crowded places, due to the increasing severity of the local COVID-19 situation.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
On June 26, 2024, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) resumed the 'Expanded Public Payment Measure for Antiviral Drugs for Influenza' where individuals with flu-like symptoms and contact with others experiencing similar symptoms can receive free antiviral drugs until July 31. With both flu and COVID-19 in a pandemic stage, the CDC reintroduced this measure due to the increased number of confirmed cases. Additionally, starting October 1, specific groups like healthcare workers, individuals aged 65 and above, young children, and pregnant women can receive both COVID-19 and flu vaccines on the same day. The CDC has procured over 6.88 million doses of flu vaccines and 5.5 million doses of new COVID-19 vaccines for this year.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
世界衛生組織（WHO）的研究指出，全球約18億成年人中，約有近三分之一無法達到建議的運動量水平。運動不足導致心血管疾病、糖尿病、失智症以及各種癌症的風險增加。報告顯示，高收入亞太地區和南亞的運動不足比率最高，女性的不足比例高於男性，且60歲以上人群的運動不足明顯較高。儘管這是令人擔憂的趨勢，但一些國家在過去十年中取得積極進展，呼籲各國透過多項措施應對全球運動不足危機。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Investigative reporters have uncovered a concerning trend of 'lofeng' prostitution in Taiwan, with sex workers like 27-year-old Mirra from Thailand coming to Taiwan multiple times under the guise of tourism to engage in sex work. This is facilitated by the increase in short-term visa-free entry for tourists from countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The sex industry in Taiwan sees an influx of foreign women engaging in prostitution, with statistics showing a significant rise in their numbers since the reopening of the borders. Law enforcement agencies stress the need for international cooperation to combat human trafficking networks operating between Southeast Asia and Taiwan.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Since the opening of the New Southbound Policy in June 2024, a significant number of Southeast Asian sex workers have come to Taiwan, engaging in illegal activities such as prostitution and hostess work. This includes foreign students holding student visas attending language centers or the 'New Southbound International Program' (NSP), with instances of them being involved in sex work in various regions of Taiwan. The issue has raised concerns about the exploitation and control of foreign students through debt bondage, highlighting the need for better monitoring and policies to prevent such activities among international students.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
As of April this year, the number of missing migrant workers and overstaying tourists in Taiwan has reached a record high of 134,000. The budget for the 'Project to Expand the Investigation and Inspection of Overstaying Foreign Residents' in the Immigration Bureau amounts to NT$390 million, with NT$200 million covered by the Labor Department's 'Employment Stabilization Fund.' Criticism has been raised by a KMT legislator, Ke Chih-en, claiming that using this fund to crack down on overstaying tourists doesn't align with its original purpose of benefiting domestic employment. Ke also emphasized the need for stricter border control measures at airports to tackle issues like human trafficking involving Southeast Asian visitors, suggesting requirements for financial proof or guarantees for visas. The Immigration Bureau announced the resumption of pre-pandemic enforcement efforts and periodic inspections to track and address overstaying foreign residents.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Reporters Lin Huancheng and freelance reporter Chen Weizhou reported that on June 26, 2024, a multinational group took advantage of the 'Guanghong Project' loophole to bring a large number of female sex workers to Taiwan. The Taiwanese police have been cracking down on such illegal activities, including uncovering a large-scale prostitution ring involving Vietnamese women who entered Taiwan on tourist visas. The influx of Southeast Asian sex workers coming to Taiwan under the New Southbound Policy has raised concerns. Various regions in Taiwan have seen a surge in the number of sex workers from Southeast Asian countries, with places like Taichung and Taoyuan having the highest concentrations. The criminal organizations behind this illicit industry operate similar to international fraud groups, making it challenging for law enforcement to trace the main perpetrators.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Legislator Huang Kuo-chang questioned the payment made by the Taiwan Livestock Research Institute to SuperVision while the import permit for eggs was obtained by Bright Harvest. The investigation involves allegations of misconduct in importing eggs, mislabeling the origin, and wasting public funds on destroying expired eggs. However, after nine months, the Prosecutor's Office has yet to interview the accused officials. The Livestock Research Institute has agreed to repay half of the subsidies received.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
On June 26, 2024, the Parliamentary Reform Act came into effect, prompting the Kuomintang (KMT) opposition party to establish an investigation team focusing on the Universal Basic Income (UBI) case and the NCC TV case. The KMT aims to initiate investigations with the support of the public and address corruption issues responsibly. The KMT plans to propose motions in the committee meetings next week and expedite the investigation process by forming a special investigative team.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The controversy over the import of eggs from Japan by Supr Inc. and the involvement of Taiwan Livestock Development Association intensified as it was revealed that a trade contract signed with LCA Enterprise Limited was later paid by Supr Inc. instead. Deputy Minister of Agriculture Du Wen-zhen, who also serves as the chairman of the Livestock Development Association, claimed ignorance about the situation when interviewed, drawing criticism from Taipei Mayor Hou You-yi, who stated that this cannot be explained to the people. Mayor Hou emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, especially with parliamentary reform ongoing. LCA Bio-Tech, the company involved, remained elusive when questioned by reporters. Mayor Hou urged for clarity on how Supr Inc. imported the eggs, stressing that saying 'I don't know' is not an acceptable response.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The ongoing controversy surrounding the Central Livestock Association's imported eggs project has raised suspicions of significant discrepancies in egg imports and questionable practices in obtaining import permits, breaching government procurement laws. Despite the controversies, the Department of Agriculture has delegated the investigation to the Taipei District Prosecutors Office claiming no investigative powers. This has shed light on the lack of supervision over the Livestock Association, mainly funded by massive subsidies from the Agricultural Department. The investigation further revealed misuse of subsidies, lack of accountability in procurement processes, and lack of balanced production and prediction mechanisms in the egg industry, leading to imbalances between demand and supply, and an opaque judicial process in exposing the truth behind the scandals.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Chief of the General Staff, Mei Chia-shu, reported to the Legislative Yuan's Foreign and National Defense Committee on the implementation of the Han Guang Exercise, focusing on the importance of 'decentralization of command and control' with clear Rules of Engagement. This year's exercise prioritizes Taiwan's defense operations in the Taiwan Strait, while still maintaining capabilities for amphibious and special operations. The exercise aims to validate the effectiveness of the decentralized command approach with ROE now delegated to individual soldiers.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
During a press conference held by People First Party Legislator Huang Kuo-chang, it was revealed that a company under the 'Alliance Renewal' of the Green Energy National Team installed Chinese-made solar inverters at the Army's Lanyang Command Headquarters, violating the contract banning the use of mainland Chinese products. This raised concerns over the company's political connections. The Ministry of National Defense acknowledged the error and promised to investigate and hold the responsible company accountable.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Taiwan Shipbuilding emphasizes that the contractually agreed delivery date for the 'Sea Giant' submarine is November 3, 2025, and they will adhere to the contract. The progress of the first domestically manufactured submarine, named Sea Giant and designated as 711, has raised discussions as it has not entered the sea trial phase after completing the HAT berthing test for a long time. The delay is attributed to the late delivery of the optical-electronic periscope mast ordered from overseas manufacturers by Taiwan Shipbuilding. However, Taiwan Shipbuilding did not comment on this. The company also released a statement mentioning its adherence to national policies and interests in subsequent submarine projects, aiming to prevent arms dealers from profiteering and meddling to exploit taxpayers' money.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
A video shared on Facebook shows a giant Guanyin statue being lifted by construction workers only to have the ropes suddenly break, causing the statue to fall and shatter. The incident took place at a temple in Yilan County, Taiwan, sparking discussions online about the professionalism of the crane operators and the outcome of the mishap. Netizens playfully linked the incident to the deity, with comments like 'Fallen Guanyin' instead of 'Guanyin' and debates on the consequences of choosing cheaper materials for lifting heavy objects.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
In a chain breakfast shop in Kaohsiung, flies were found crawling on steamed buns, leading to temporary closure by the health bureau due to multiple deficiencies. Meanwhile, a rat was seen running about in a Taipei restaurant, causing panic among customers. In Taichung, a BBQ restaurant faced a suspected food poisoning incident. Health bureaus inspected all the establishments to ensure compliance with hygiene regulations and ordered necessary improvements to prevent further issues.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Taiwan's US envoy, Yu Shases, was reportedly denied approval to purchase a Cadillac worth $3.7 million, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs found the cost and engine size excessive. The Ministry responded to an inquiry from legislator Huang Kuo-chang about Yu's spending by labeling the information as 'classified.' Allegations of misuse of public funds and workplace bullying at the US representative office have surfaced, prompting further investigation. Speculations on internal power struggles within the diplomatic system have also emerged.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Taiwan's representative to the United States, Yu Da-chang, held a press conference to address allegations of misusing public funds for luxurious overseas accommodations, admitting to riding in an official vehicle with his family to view cherry blossoms but denying spending 8 million. He emphasized that the refurbishment of official premises and furniture is necessary for the country's image and denied lavish personal expenses. Yu also acknowledged making adjustments to the official residence as a new ambassador. The controversy involves allegations of his family's improper use of public resources and his wife's behavior towards embassy staff.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
On June 26, 2024, Taiwanese representative to the U.S., Yu Da-chang, faced allegations and defended himself boldly in a press conference, emphasizing his integrity. However, questions remain regarding the use of official vehicles for personal errands, reflecting a potential political storm. Yu Da-chang admitted to using the official car for shopping trips and family outings, justifying it as necessary maintenance, yet his explanations faced scrutiny. The controversy has sparked discussions in the diplomatic circle, with opinions divided on his actions and the need for adherence to regulations and public perception.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The constitutional battle for parliamentary reform began on June 26, 2024, with Yunlin University of Science and Technology's Professor Yang Chih-chieh stating that only the Legislative Yuan is likely to accept the Democratic Progressive Party's four routes to interpret the constitution through the President, Control Yuan, Executive Yuan, and Legislative Yuan, with the other three routes not meeting the criteria. Yang explained further during a live broadcast with former Kuomintang legislator Chen Hsüeh-sheng and adjunct assistant professor at Tsinghua University, Ho Chih-yung, stating that attempts by the Executive Yuan to interpret the constitution after failing to review were not only illegal but also violated the constitution.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
At the central standing committee meeting held by the Kuomintang (KMT) on June 26, 2024, Chairman Eric Chu urged Lai Ching-te to abide by the constitution. The KMT legislative caucus appealed to the fifteen grand justices, stating that this was a historical and crucial moment in constitutionalism, questioning whether the justices would cooperate with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) or uphold their reputation in safeguarding democracy and the rule of law. Lai emphasized the constitution as the fundamental law of the country, denouncing any acts opposing the constitution or disrupting the constitutional order.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The US bond market rose as economic reports indicated the possibility of Federal Reserve rate cuts to prevent a slowdown. Traders are focusing on the Fed's favored inflation gauge, with expectations for a rate cut later this year. The market is also bracing for increased volatility following a key debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Concerns about the labor market's strength and the need for Fed intervention have sparked warnings of a market rest, but some remain bullish on stocks. Additionally, investors expect AI companies to exceed second-quarter earnings estimates despite mixed reactions to stock performance.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Evolve Bank and Trust in Arkansas confirmed being targeted in a cyber attack with customers' data illegally released on the dark web. A cybersecurity incident involving account numbers and deposit balances was reported by a cybercrime group. The bank has engaged law enforcement for investigation and response, offering impacted customers free credit monitoring with identity theft protection. The U.S. Federal Reserve previously directed Evolve to enhance risk management programs related to fintech partnerships and anti-money laundering regulations.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to CTWANT, former National Security Bureau Deputy Director Chen Jin-guang will assume the position of Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs following an announcement by the Executive Yuan. This marks the first instance of a retired intelligence official being appointed to a prominent role in veterans affairs. Chen's extensive experience in political warfare and intelligence background has garnered attention and reflects the government's handling of retired military officials, especially amidst current cross-strait relations. Chen's appointment is viewed as having a significant impact in the intelligence field and possibly hinting at future advancements within the realm of intelligence operations.
Source: YAHOO