ICRT

Posted on 2026-04-20 08:08:13

The annual Dajia Mazu pilgrimage has arrived in Yunlin's Xiluo Township -
where police deployed an additonal 500 officers for security purposes.

The larger than normal police presence in the township came after three
police officers were injured, and two suspects arrested following clashes in
Changhua this past weekend.

The Yunlin County Police Bureau says it had originally planned to deploy
2,000 officers, but increase that number to include more plain clothed and
uniformed officers, as well volunteer police and civil defense personnel.

Forty police officers are stationed around the palanquin as it entered the
town and arrived at the Xintian Temple.

Tens of thousands of people welcomed the Mazu palanquin as it arrived at the
Xiluo Bridge at around 8 o'clock last night and made its way to the temple.

The Xiluo Township Farmers' Association and the temple prepared over a
thousand dishes for a banquet for the pilgrims.

The 9-day, 8-night Dajia Mazu pilgrimage began last Friday evening and will
end this coming Sunday after covering 340-kilometers and passing through
Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi.

Posted on 2026-04-20 08:08:13

C-P-C has left gasoline and diesel prices unchanged at the pump again this
week - as the government seeks to stabilize consumer prices and keep a lid on
inflationary pressures.

It marks the third consecutive week that state refiner has maintained its
fuel prices at the same level - despite global oil prices remaining volatile
due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

The move means 92 octane unleaded remain at 32.4 N-T per liter, while the
price of premium diesel stays at 31 N-T a liter.

C-P-C says it will absorb losses of 3.6 N-T per liter for gasoline and 5.4
N-T per liter for diesel prices in order to adhere to the government's policy
of ensuring that fuel prices remain lower than those of its neighboring
markets.

Under C-P-C's floating pricing mechanism, which uses a weighting of 70-per
cent Dubai and 30-per cent Brent crude, the average international oil price
last week stood at 107.44 U-S dollars per barrel.

That was down from 115.99 U-S dollars per barrel the previous week.

Posted on 2026-04-20 08:08:13

And,

The Central Weather Administration says we can expect generally stable
conditions today - but a weak northeasterly wind system is expected to bring
scattered showers to the Greater Taipei area and the east tomorrow.

Other regions will remain mostly cloudy to sunny with isolated afternoon
showers.

Conditions will briefly stabilize on Wednesday.

However, a weather front will moving through Taiwan starting on Thursday,
bringing with it an increased likelihood of showers or thunderstorms
islandwide.

Temperatures in the north and northeast are are expected to drop as the front
approaches - and rainfall likely in the north and center.

The unstable weather is expected to persist into Friday and Saturday under
the combined influence of the front and strengthening northeasterly winds -
when showers or thunderstorms are possible across the island.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Somaliland's foreign ministry has congratulated President Lai Ching-te on his
upcoming visit to Eswatini and his first trip to Africa since taking office
in May of 2024.

Taiwan opened a representative office in Somaliland's capital in August of
2020, and Somaliland reciprocated by opening a similar office in Taipei in
September that same year.

Lai is slated to travel to Eswatini from April 22 to 27.

The Presidential Office announced last week that the theme of the state visit
is "Celebrating Together for Taiwan and Eswatini, Working Hand in Hand for
Common Prosperity."

Lai will be attending celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of King
Mswati III's accession to the throne and his 58th birthday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said the trip will be a direct flight
with no transits.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming says the government plans to establish a
national "urban forest" initiative to expand tree cover and create continuous
shade along daily commuting routes.

According to Peng, the plan envisions that "in 10 years, people will be able
to walk from M-R-T stations to their offices under tree shade" if planting
begins now.

Peng says the proposal will be submitted to the Presidential Office's
National Climate Change Committee next week and a full plan is expected to be
released the end of the year.

The plan will prioritize native species and biodiversity, while avoiding
unsuitable trees, and will involve coordination across central and local
governments down to the neighborhood level ....

... and a dedicated tree-planting unit is also under consideration.

Peng also says each tree could be assigned a digital "identity" for long-term
monitoring and management.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Premier Cho Jung-tai says Taiwan has now regained its status as free of
African swine fever.

It comes after the Ministry of Agriculture announced earlier this month that
Taiwan's self-declaration of freedom from the African swine fever virus was
officially approved by the World Organization for Animal Health.

Taiwan detected its first A-S-F case on October 21 of last year at a farm in
Taichung - that after becoming the first country in Asia to hold disease-free
status for all three swine diseases following recognition in May of last
year.

The agriculture ministry applied to regain disease-free status on February 21.

According to the premier, the government has been working actively to seeking
international certification over the past six months and he's also thanking
the pork industry for working closely with the government to maintain strict
controls.

The premier says government will continue to strengthen border controls,
disease prevention systems, and cooperation with industry.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

pilgrimage

Three police officers were injured, and two suspects arrested after clashes
broke out in Changhua as the annual Dajia Mazu pilgrimage passed through the
city this past weekend.

According to police in Changhua, the three officers were injured when they
tried to intervene in a dispute that erupted among members of a group
welcoming the procession.

Two suspects were arrested at the scene.

The Changhua Police Precinct says other individuals involved in the violent
are still being identified and will be summoned for questioning following a
review of surveillance footage from the area.

Another altercation along the procession route in Changhua was quickly
brought under control and two men were detained then.

Authorities are reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on violence during this
year's Dajia Mazu pilgrimage ..

.. and the National Police Agency has condemned "troublemakers that
undermined public authority" - saying such actions will be clamped down on
those responsible held accountable.

The Dajia Mazu pilgrimage began last Friday and will end this coming Sunday.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

The Navy's goodwill fleet has wrapped-up port calls in St. Lucia and St.
Vincent and the Grenadines and is now headed to Belize.

The fleet is officially designated as the 2026 Midshipmen and Cruising
Training Squadron of the Republic of China Navy.

It arrived in St. Lucia on April 11 for a three-day stop.

Two of the goodwill fleet's three vessels - the fast combat support ship
Panshi and the Kang Ding-class guided-missile frigate Di Hua - were opened to
the public there.

Taiwan's embassy in St. Lucia says the vessels draw approximately 2,000
visitors.

The third vessel, the Cheng Kung-class guided-missile frigate Yueh Fei was
not opened to the public.

The fleet then sailed to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

A formal welcoming ceremony will be held in Belize on April 22 - and that
port call will mark the first visit by the Navy's goodwill fleet in 13 years.

The fleet left Taiwan in late February for its annual training voyage.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

And,

Veteran cinematographer Lai Cheng-ying has died.

He was 95.

Lai's death was confirmed by Lu Jun-ming, the secretary-general of the
Chinese Society of Cinematographers, following reports of Lai's passing early
Sunday on a cinematographers' group social media chat.

Lai was born in Taichung in 1931 and co-founded the association 37 years ago.

He was among Taiwan's first generation of film professionals trained by the
predecessor of Central Motion Picture Corporation.

He entered the film industry in the 1950s, working his way up from assistant
cameraman to cinematographer and later director.

He was also sent to Japan to study color cinematography and film processing,
bringing back new techniques to Taiwan.

Lai won three Golden Horse Awards for best cinematography for the films
"Beautiful Duckling," "Stars Gathering," and "Execution in Autumn."

He was awarded the Golden Horse Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Russian Oil Sanctions

Officials say Russian strikes have killed at least two people in Ukraine.

A 16-year-old boy died in a nighttime drone attack on Chernihiv that also
injured four others.

On Sunday morning, Russian drones also attacked Kherson, killing one man and
injuring another.

Ukraine's air force reported that Russia launched 236 drones overnight, with
203 shot down.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's military reported hitting a Russian drone factory in
Taganrog, causing a fire.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed its forces shot down 274 Ukrainian
drones during the night.

This comes as Zelenskyy responded with dismay to the Trump administration's
decision on Friday to extend its pause on sanctions on Russian oil shipments.

The Ukrainian president argued on social media that any additional revenue
the Kremlin gets from oil sales “is directly converted into new strikes
against Ukraine."

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada’s strong economic ties to
the U.S. were once a strength but are now a weakness that must be corrected.

Carney spoke in a video address released Sunday about his government’s
efforts to strengthen the Canadian economy by attracting new investments and
signing trade deals with other countries.

Carney said tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump have impacted
workers in such major industries as auto and steel and prompted businesses to
hold back investments.

The Canadian prime minister's comments came days after securing a majority
government following special election wins and as the opposition
Conservatives push him to deliver a U.S. trade deal, which was among his
promises in last year’s election.

A review of the current version of the North American Free Trade Agreement
between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico is scheduled for July.

Posted on 2026-04-20 06:58:13

Baby food manufacturer HiPP is recalling some jars of its products in Austria
after samples tested positive for rat poison in Austria, Slovakia and the
Czech Republic.

Officials believe the tampering occurred in 190-gram jars of carrot and
potato baby food for 5-month-olds sold at supermarkets.

The first sample tested positive on Saturday.

HiPP says it is recalling all jars sold at several supermarket chains in
Austria as a precaution.

Vendors in Slovakia and the Czech Republic have removed all of the brand’s
baby jars from sale.

Police say the suspicious products likely have a white sticker with a red
circle on the bottom of the glass.

Posted on 2026-04-18 16:06:14

Australia and Japan have signed contracts for the first three of a $6.5
billion fleet of Japanese-designed warships.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will build the three Mogami-class frigates in
Japan.

Australia plans to build another eight in Western Australia.

The first delivery is expected in three years.

The deal boosts Japan's defense industry and replaces Australia's aging
ANZAC-class frigates.

Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian counterpart Richard
Marles attended the signing ceremony today.

Marles said the Japanese frigates are a major step toward a larger and more
lethal Australian surface combat fleet.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 16:06:14

White House chief of staff Susie Wiles has met with Anthropic CEO Dario
Amodei to discuss the company's new AI model, Mythos.

The model has gained attention for its advanced capabilities. Anthropic has
limited its use owing to the Mythos's ability to surpass human cybersecurity
experts in finding vulnerabilities.

The meeting comes after tensions between the Trump administration and
Anthropic over the military use of AI technology.

Posted on 2026-04-18 15:08:25

The US Treasury Department has extended a pause of sanctions on Russian oil
shipments to ease shortages from the Iran war.

This is days after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent ruled out such a move.
The administration didn't immediately explain the reversal.

The decision means US sanctions won't apply for 30 days on deliveries of
Russian oil that has been loaded on tankers as of yesterday.

Treasury made a similar decision in March for Russian oil that had been
loaded by March 11.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 13:07:13

Some Taiwan economists are forecasting that the Taiwan dollar will soon
stabilize around 31 NT per US dollar ... as a recent trend of depreciation
reversed this past week.

The apparent advances in efforts toward resolving the Iran conflict have led
to an influx of funds to Taiwan, resulting in rising stock prices and a
weaker dollar versus the NT.

The US dollar slipped from 31.7 NT to 31.5 by the end of the week.

Cathay United Bank chief economist Lin Chi-chao (林啟超) forecasts that so
long as the Iran conflict doesn't flare up again, the NT should return to
around 31 per dollar soon ... but any further strengthening is doubtful given
the uncertainty around what US President Donald Trump's next move that might
destabilize the global economy might be.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 13:07:14

Tuesday

The KMT and TPP's stalemate with the DPP administration could make progress
next week, with a plan for the budget review committee to convene on Tuesday.

Both sides reached a consensus on Wednesday for the committee to review the
Cabinet's 3 trillion-NT budget allocation for this year, which was submitted
to the Legislative Yuan in August.

A key stumbling block is the Cabinet's omission of pay increases for
military, police and firefighters sought by the opposition. Premier Cho
Jung-tai will be questioned on this and other budgetary matters on Tuesday
before the committee begins its review.

As part of the cross-party negotiations, the Cabinet agreed to amend laws
related to government personnel within six months to ensure their rights are
safeguarded.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 13:07:14

Some Taiwan economists are forecasting that the Taiwan dollar will soon
stabilize around 31 NT per US dollar ... as a recent trend of depreciation
reversed this past week.

The apparent advances in efforts toward resolving the Iran conflict have led
to an influx of funds to Taiwan, resulting in rising stock prices and a
weaker dollar versus the NT.

The US dollar slipped from 31.7 NT to 31.5 by the end of the week.

Cathay United Bank chief economist Lin Chi-chao (林啟超) forecasts that so
long as the Iran conflict doesn't flare up again, the NT should return to
around 31 per dollar soon ... but any further strengthening is doubtful given
the uncertainty around what US President Donald Trump's next move that might
destabilize the global economy might be.

CNA_zh_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 13:07:14

Tuesday

The KMT and TPP's stalemate with the DPP administration could make progress
next week, with a plan for the budget review committee to convene on Tuesday.

Both sides reached a consensus on Wednesday for the committee to review the
Cabinet's 3 trillion-NT budget allocation for this year, which was submitted
to the Legislative Yuan in August.

A key stumbling block is the Cabinet's omission of pay increases for
military, police and firefighters sought by the opposition. Premier Cho
Jung-tai will be questioned on this and other budgetary matters on Tuesday
before the committee begins its review.

As part of the cross-party negotiations, the Cabinet agreed to amend laws
related to government personnel within six months to ensure their rights are
safeguarded.

CNA_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-18 11:07:13

A US judge has blocked the $6.2 billion merger between local television
giants Nexstar Media Group and Tegna until an antitrust lawsuit is resolved.

The merger would create a company owning 265 TV stations across 44 US states.

Attorneys general in eight states and DirecTV sued to stop the merger,
arguing it could raise consumer prices and harm local journalism.

Nexstar's lawyers say the deal has already been vetted and approved by the
Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice.

The California judge in the case had previously issued an emergency order
blocking the deal for three weeks.

AP_JvW

Posted on 2026-04-17 19:42:13

Health authorities say a recent rise in food safety incidents across Taiwan
is not a systemic issue.

The Food and Drug Administration says cases reported since the Tomb Sweeping
holiday show no common supply chain.

Instead, officials believe they were caused by management failures at
individual businesses.

The agency says 66 cases were reported between April 1st and 16th.

But officials say that it's only slightly above levels in recent years ... if
the unusual spike from 2024's Polam Kopitiam food poisoning incident is
excuded.

The FDA says it will strengthen cross-county reporting and inspections.

Officials stress Taiwan's overall food safety system remains intact, whilst
urging businesses to tighten self-management.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-17 19:42:14

Over in Kaohsiung's Qidu District ...

... mynah birds (八哥鳥) have been building nests on top of traffic lights
along the Chi-shyan (七賢) Bridge ...

... and officials are urging everyone not to approach the nests or drive them
away.

The city's Animal Protection and Quarantine Bureau says mynah birds are
currently in breeding season ...

... and that they tend to choose elevated, sheltered spots like traffic
lights, which offer both safety and favorable conditions for raising their
young.

Officials add that unless the nests pose a risk to traffic safety or signal
operation, they will be left undisturbed until the chicks mature and leave
the nest naturally.

(JM)

Posted on 2026-04-17 19:42:15

Meanwhile,

The Lebanon ceasefire agreement seems on target, as European officials hold
talks over the Strait of Hormuz.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports.

Posted on 2026-04-17 19:42:15

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says he is "absolutely furious" for not
being informed that his pick for U.K. ambassador to Washington failed
security checks.

Starmer calls it "staggering" and "unforgivable."

He faces demands to resign over appointing Peter Mandelson, who was
considered risky due to past ties with Jeffrey Epstein.

The Foreign Office overruled security officials' recommendations against
Mandelson's appointment.

Starmer's office claims he only learned of the failed checks recently.

Opposition leaders express disbelief, with some calling for his resignation.

Starmer plans to address Parliament on Monday.

Posted on 2026-04-17 18:24:13

The opposition KMT is demanding that Premier Cho Jung-tai brief the
Legislature on the potential impact on social security and labor conditions
of a government plan to recruit Indian migrant workers.

Labor Minister Hung Sun-han announced earlier this month that Taipei is
getting ready to recruit an initial 1,000 Indians to work in Taiwan's
manufacturing, agricultural, and caregiving sectors.

He added that they could arrive by the end of this year.

The announcement has prompted strong opposition from local labor and civil
groups, saying the government should solve the problem of 93-thousand migrant
workers having absconded from their jobs.

Meanwhile 35-thousand people have signed on the Public Policy Online
Participation Network Platform to call for a halt to the policy.

The KMT's motion has passed a second reading and Legislative Speaker Han
Guo-yu will convene cross-party negotiations.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 18:24:13

A C-P-C petrochemical plant in Kaohsiung is facing fines after equipment
failure triggered a big fire that released excessive pollutants into the air
today.

The city's Environmental Protection Bureau said its monitoring system
detected black smoke from a flare stack at CPC's Lin-yuan plant before noon,
adding that the company is set to be subject to a fine of up to $5 million
NT.

An investigation found that a compressor in the plant's naphtha cracking
process had tripped, diverting gases to the flare system, where they were
burned off, resulting in elevated flaring and significant particulate
emissions.

The compressor has since been restarted, while the cause of the trip remains
under investigation.

In petroleum refineries, flare stacks are safety devices used to prevent
equipment overpressure by burning off excess gases.

(CNA-JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 18:24:13

Taitung County says it aims to generate 60 percent of its own electricity by
2030 through renewable energy.

Officials say the county is developing small-scale hydropower and geothermal
energy as part of a microgrid system.

There are currently six small hydro plants — with four already in operation.

There's also four geothermal facilities, including one running and three
under construction.

Together, they are expected to produce around 600 million kilowatt-hours a
year — about 60 percent of the county's electricity use.

Taitung currently relies entirely on power transmitted from western Taiwan,
meaning a major disruption could lead to widespread outages.

Officials say expanding local energy production will improve resilience and
reduce dependence on external supply.

They add the projects have low environmental impact, while also supporting
local communities.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

The Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research has sharply raised its
economic growth forecast for this year to 7.2 per cent.

That's up from its earlier estimate of 4.1 per cent for this year.

CIER said the upgrade reflects strong demand for AI and semiconductor
products, supporting trade growth despite disruptions from the conflict in
the Middle East.

The institute says that Taiwan's economy is being driven by strong exports,
while domestic demand remains steady.

These exports pushed first-quarter growth to 13 percent.

Inflation is forecast at just below the 2 per cent warning level.

Analysts say future price trends will depend on the Middle East conflict,
energy prices, and whether domestic price controls remain in place.

They add that inflation could surpass 2 per cent if those controls are lifted.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

Taiwan's changing demographics are reshaping the housing market, with smaller
households under 25 ping becoming the new norm.

According to Yung Ching Realty, declining birth rates, later marriages, and a
rise in single living have pushed the average household size down to 2.89
people.

That's a noticeable drop from just over three people per household a few
years ago.

The trend is driving increased demand for smaller homes and especially
smaller units, which have seen a steady rise in transaction share across the
six major municipalities and Hsinchu city and county.

Analysts say high housing prices are also a factor, making lower-cost,
compact properties more attractive to first-time buyers and single residents.

In Hsinchu, the average price for smaller housing units rose from 3.3 million
to 5.2 million NT, or nearly 59 percent, over the past five years.

(IG/JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

A seismic reinforcement project at a Kaohsiung public library has
unexpectedly uncovered structural remnants of a century-old Japanese
colonial-era township office.

Workers renovating the Caogong Branch of the Kaohsiung Public Library
discovered arched red brick windows from the original building during the
ongoing earthquake-proofing works.

Comparisons with old photographs and original brickwork confirmed the
remnants are authentic pieces from the site's earliest period.

Kaohsiung city officials conducted an on-site inspection today and say
they've consulted structural engineers to adjust the positioning of
reinforcement works so that the arched windows can be fully preserved.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

And now in international news ...

A helicopter flying between palm oil plantations on the Indonesian portion of
Borneo has crashed, killing all eight people on board.

The Airbus H130 aircraft lost contact yesterday five minutes after it took
off from Melawi district in West Kalimantan province in the western part of
the island.

Searchers later located the wreckage and recovered the bodies of the two crew
members and six passengers.

One of those killed was Malaysian.

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

In their first public statement, two Iranian footballers who were given
asylum in Australia said that the country has given them "hope for a future
where we can live and compete in safety".

Originally, seven Iranian footballers applied for and were granted
humanitarian visas after the Asian Women's Cup in Australia, but only two --
Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh - decided to stay.

They feared repercussions from refusing to sing the national anthem in early
March, just days after the war in Iran began.

The two women said they hope to continue their football careers in Australia.

Human rights groups say that the five women who returned home might have
faced family pressure, but Iran's government-affiliated news agency, Tasnim,
said that the players had faced "psychological warfare, extensive propaganda,
and seductive offers" in Australia.

Posted on 2026-04-17 16:32:14

Air New Zealand has announced plans to add triple-tier bunk beds for economy
travellers to get a bit of sleep on certain flights.

The airline plans to open reservations for four-hour long stints on these
lie-flat beds on its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners starting this November.

Six beds will be available on flights between Auckland and New York City, one
of the world's longest commercial flights, coming in at between sixteen and
eighteen hours.

They will cost 495 New Zealand dollars, or roughly 9000 NT.

Air New Zealand will provide earplugs to guard against potential snoring, and
says it promises to refresh pillows, blankets, and sheets between travellers.

And, of course, etiquette rules will apply.

Passengers are forbidden from eating snacks, wearing perfume, and smuggling
other passengers into the pods.

They'll also have to wear specially provided socks in the pods, and fasten
their seatbelts over their blankets.

Posted on 2026-04-17 14:09:14

The Legislature has expanded the grounds for preventive detention, adding
drunk driving, killing of young children, sexual image offenses, child sexual
exploitation, and fraud to the list of crimes that can justify holding a
suspect in custody before trial.

The Legislative Yuan passed the amendment in a third reading this morning
with no objections from lawmakers present.

Under existing law, judges may order preventive detention when a suspect
faces serious charges, such as rape, homicide, or assault, and there is
concrete reason to believe the person is likely to reoffend.

The amendment adds a range of additional offenses to that list.

Lawmakers cited a rising number of cases involving fraud, sexual image
crimes, and organized crime, as well as the need to protect potential victims
and ensure smooth investigations.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-04-17 14:09:14

Taiwan shares are lower today amid mixed performances of other Asian stock
markets as investors watched for developments of U.S.-Iran talks.

The benchmark Taiex dropped 327 points to end the session at 36,804

The turnover remained robust, at 943.1 billion NT.

Posted on 2026-04-17 14:09:14

In world news....

The Iran war’s global energy shock is causing some nations in Asia and
Africa to boost nuclear power generation and spurring atomic energy plans in
non-nuclear countries on both continents.

Nuclear power isn’t a quick fix for the current energy crisis caused by
shipping disruptions in key oil and gas sea lanes.

But analysts say the decisions and investments being made now in both major
economies and developing countries will likely lock countries into a
nuclear-powered future.

Leaders across Asia and Africa have recently announced new-found nuclear
ambition and plans, marking a new notable momentum in both continents.

The International Atomic Energy Agency says there are 31 countries in the
world that use nuclear power, which provides about 10% of global electricity.

another 40 nations are either considering the technology or preparing to
build a plant.

Posted on 2026-04-17 14:09:14

A new report states that the number of people facing high levels of hunger in
Haiti is expected to drop slightly.

But officials say the situation remains critical and that any small gains
might soon be erased because of soaring oil prices linked to the war in Iran.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification said Thursday that more
than 5.8 million Haitians are expected to face acute levels of hunger from
March to June, representing more than half the country’s population.

Meanwhile, nearly 1.9 million people are expected to face emergency levels of
hunger, just down from the projected 2 million people.

But the report said limited improvements are “insufficient."

Posted on 2026-04-17 13:07:14

Travelers planning to fly between Taiwan proper and outlying Kinmen, Matsu
and Penghu during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday can start booking their
tickets at 9 AM next Monday.

This year's Festival falls on June 19th, and the Civil Aviation
Administration says the expanded air transport period is set from June 18th
through the 22nd.

The CAA says Peng-hu will see the largest capacity, with over 700 flights and
nearly 59-thousand seats, followed by Kinmen's 416 flights and Matsu's 134
flights during that period of time.

Officials remind passengers that a new refund policy will be in place and
cancellation charges can reach up to 30 percent of the ticket price,
depending on how close to departure changes are made.

Outlying island flights are also more vulnerable to weather disruptions, and
travelers should check the latest forecasts before leaving home.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 13:07:14

Taipei city officials say calla lilies on Yang-ming-shan are now entering
peak bloom, with the best viewing period running through the end of April.

This year’s Calla Lily Festival is already underway at Bamboo Lake with the
theme “Melody of the Flower Fields” .

The season is expected to last until early May, but officials say the most
stunning views will be before the end of this month.

In recent years, Bamboo Lake has also developed into a leisure farming
destination, with many farms offering dining options and afternoon tea,
giving visitors a chance to relax among the flowers and mountain scenery.

Officials add that most of the calla lilies in the area are the classic white
variety, which thrive in wetland conditions.

The Festival runs until April 26th.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 13:07:14

Weather Risk's Lyle Lai tells us about what to expect for conditions over
this weekend and into early next week.

That's Weather Risk's meterologist Lyle Lai.

Posted on 2026-04-17 13:07:14

In world news....

The leaders of France and the U.K. are holding an international summit to
push forward efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route
affected by the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

The coalition, excluding the U.S., aims to provide security for shipping once
the conflict ends.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said the mission will be strictly
defensive.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused Iran of holding the world's
economy to ransom.

Military planning meetings have been held, but experts say the coalition's
role may be limited.

France says around 30 countries—including some from the Middle East and
Asia—are expected to join Friday’s summit, with some European leaders
attending in person and others by video, though the full list has not been
disclosed.

Posted on 2026-04-17 11:09:13

American AI chip giant Nvidia will be holding its G-P-U Technology Conference
in Taipei for the second consecutive year.

The event will coincide with Computex Taipei - which takes place in early
June.

Nvidia founder and C-E-O Jensen Huang will deliver the keynote address on the
opening day of the G-P-U Technology Conference on June 1 at the Taipei Music
Center.

According to Nvidia, the conference will be taking place at Taipei
International Convention Center and several other venues across the city,
exploring "the next generation of AI."

Nvidia says this year's global A-I conference will bring together developers,
researchers, and industry leaders to dive into the latest breakthroughs
redefining what's possible .....

.... and will cover A-I factories and scaling infrastructure, agentic A-I and
reasoning A-I, A-I for science, physical A-I and robotics.

Computex Taipei is scheduled to take place from June 2 through 5.

This year's even is being held under the theme of "A-I Together."

Posted on 2026-04-17 11:09:23

In world news...

A 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel has taken effect since
yesterday, and US President Donald Trump said the next meeting between the
United States and Iran may take place over the weekend.

The development is adding to optimism that the Iran war could be nearing an
end.

Trump said Iran had offered not to possess nuclear weapons for more than 20
years, adding that the war "should be ending pretty soon.

Tehran's nuclear ambitions were a sticking point at talks in Pakistan last
weekend.

Posted on 2026-04-17 11:09:18

The Eastern Media Group has announced that its new global headquarters in New
Taipei, Linkou is scheduled for completion this December.

The 38-floor building, at a cost of 14 billion NT, will feature a top
observation deck called “450 Taiwan Eye,” and it's expected to become a new
landmark attraction in northern Taiwan.

The name refers not to the building’s height, but to its panoramic view as
Linkou plateau is already 250 meters in altitude.

The company says visitors will be able to overlook the Taipei Basin and the
Tamsui River estuary.

The tower will also house a hotel operated by the Silks Hotel Group, located
between 29th and 36th floor, along with a performing arts venue with a
capacity of 3,000 people.

The Group's offices and business centers will occupy floors 12 through 25.

EMG management says the headquarters strategic location near Airport MRT A9
Station offers convenient access to both downtown Taipei and Taoyuan
International Airport, as well as major highways.

(JL)

Posted on 2026-04-17 11:09:23

China is accelerating its efforts to end the Iran war in the days leading to
a summit next month between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and U.S. President
Donald Trump.

But it's also trying not to alienate Tehran as China is the world's top crude
oil importer, reliant on the Middle East for half its fuel.

According to a Reuters' report, China's approach to the war has protected its
back-channel leverage enough that Trump credited Beijing with helping to get
Iran to last weekend's peace talks in Pakistan.

China-Global South Project, an independent organisation that analyses
China’s engagement in the developing world, says "That puts them in the
room with negotiators, even if it's not a seat at the table."

Posted on 2026-04-17 11:09:27

The government-owned corporation that delivers mail in Canada is taking steps
to stop home delivery.

Canada Post is initiating talks with 13 communities to begin converting about
136,000 addresses from door-to-door delivery to community mailboxes.

It is the first step in a move that will end home delivery for about 4
million addresses over the next five years.

A Canada Post spokesman said eliminating home delivery would save Canada Post
about $290 million US dollars a year and that it would not require layoffs.

Unionized postal workers will begin voting Monday on whether to ratify new
contract agreements with the national mail carrier.

They have been without a new contract since 2023.

It has been facing staggering financial losses. Canada Post said in November
its losses in the first nine months of 2025 topped $73 million usd.

Posted on 2026-04-17 09:21:14

The Coast Guard Administration says a search and rescue operation is ongoing
for the missing captain of a Taiwan fishing vessel that caught fire and
capsized in waters near the Diaoyutai Islands.

According to the administration, the "Chuan Yu 6" caught fire about
77-nautical miles northeast of the Diaoyutai Islands.

The six Filipino crew members were rescued by a nearby fishing vessel.

However, the captain remains missing.

The Coast Guard administration says it has deployed a patrol vessel for the
search and rescue operation, while Japanese authorities have also been
contacted to assist in joint search efforts.

The "Chuan Yu 6" left Badouzi Fishing Port in Keelung on April 12.

Posted on 2026-04-17 09:21:14

U.S. forces have completed their withdrawal from Qasrak Air Base, in Syria’s
Hasakah province, according to Syrian officials.

The Syrian army now controls the military sites previously held by the U.S.

The withdrawal follows a deal between Syria's central government and the
Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.

U.S. forces began leaving the base in late February, as part of a broader
drawdown.

The U.S. military has not yet commented on the withdrawal.

Posted on 2026-04-17 09:21:14

A Kenyan High Court has ruled that a class action lawsuit against BP can
proceed.

The lawsuit, filed by 299 petitioners in February, alleges that BP's
operations in northern Kenya led to toxic waste disposal that contaminated
drinking water.

The waste, linked to Amoco Corporation's activities in the 1980s, allegedly
contained radioactive materials.

Petitioners who filed the suit alleged that it sickened or killed hundreds of
residents and livestock.

The suit also accuses Kenyan government agencies of failing to act despite
evidence of contamination.

The case is set to resume in May.

Posted on 2026-04-17 08:13:13

Police in New Taipei have met with K-M-T Vice Chairman and Secretary-General
Lee Chien-lung as part on an investigation into reports that a tracking
device was placed on his vehicle without his knowledge.

Storm Media is citing K-M-T Culture and Communications Committee Deputy
Director Yin Nai-ching as saying the device had been attached to Lee's
vehicle as part of the government's secret surveillance of opposition
politicians.

Yin has accused President Lai Ching-te of being involved in the scheme

The Presidential Office is denying the accusations.

.. with Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo saying Taiwan is a
democracy and any unlawful surveillance of a party official would be a very
serious violation that would undermine public trust in the rule of law and
the reputation of government official.

Kuo is also calling on Lee and the K-M-T to provide evidence of the alleged
government involvment and file a report with the police and prosecutors.

The New Taipei City Police Department has said neither Lee nor anyone acting
on his behalf had yet filed a formal report concerning the allegations.

Posted on 2026-04-17 08:13:14

The Mainland Affairs Council has confirmed that the government has received a
message from China calling for the "full normalization" of direct
cross-strait passenger flights.

According to the council, the Chinese side sent a letter on April 7 saying it
hoped several destinations, including Urumqi, Xi'an, Harbin, Kunming and
Lanzhou could be reopened.

However, council deputy head and spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh has not said
when the government will issue a response, as existing services still have
spare capacity.

The request by China for the "full normalization" of direct cross-strait
passenger flights is part of 10 measures announced by Beijing on April 12
following K-M-T Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun's meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Direct cross-strait passenger flights to the destinations were were among the
routes suspended when Taiwan first scaled back direct cross-strait passenger
flights in February 2020 as part of its COVID border control measures.

Services have since only partially resumed on some other routes and passenger
volume remains well below pre-pandemic levels.

Posted on 2026-04-17 08:13:14

cases

Public health experts are raising concerns following several recent
high-profile cases of suspected food poisoning.

The cases in Kaohsiung, New Taipei, Taoyuan, and Yunlin resulted in some 450
people seeking medical treatment.

Two major outbreaks in New Taipei and Kaohsiung each affected more than 170
people - and Salmonella was detected in both.

Experts say it is not a series of isolated incidents, but a systemic risk
driven by multiple factors -- including rising temperatures, labor shortages,
shifting consumption patterns, and holiday demand surges.

According to public health experts, warmer weather can speed up bacterial
growth, while heavy workloads and limited staffing increase the risk of
cross-contamination, delays, and problems with food storage.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang earlier this week said local governments
need to increase the number of food safety and inspection staff in order to
better incidents of food safety violations.

Posted on 2026-04-17 08:13:14

And finally,

Local government agencies and the Taiwan Railway Corporation has been
stepping preparations for the annual Dajia Mazu pilgrimage which begins this
evening in Taichung.

The nine-day, eight-night procession will depart at 10:05PM from the Dajia
Jenn Lann Temple.

It will travel through more than 100 temples across Taichung and Changhua,
Yunlin and Chiayi.

A birthday celebration ceremony for the sea goddess is scheduled for April
21, before the procession returns to Jenn Lann Temple on April 26.

The Taiwan Railway Corporation has scheduled 38 additional train services on
April 17 and 26 in order to better handle a huge increase in passenger
volume.

Meanwhile, police in Changhua have signed agreements with local temples and
organizations to ensure orderly conduct during the pilgrimage and are
pledging "high autonomous management, zero street brawls, low environmental
hazards and smooth traffic."

The theme of this year's Dajia Mazu pilgrimage is "kindness" - with
organizers highlighting the collective spirit of participants, volunteers and
support stations that provide food, messages and medical services along the
route.

Posted on 2026-04-17 06:59:04

The Legislative Finance Committee has approved a schedule for reviewing the
central government's 2026 budget.

It comes after lawmakers agreed during cross-caucus negotiations earlier this
week that Premier Cho Jung-tai and other senior Cabinet officials will
present the budget proposal during a hearing next Tuesday.

If lawmakers are happy with the response they get from the premier and other
Cabinet officials, other legislative committees will then review the budget
from April 22 until May 14.

The Finance Committee will then consolidate the findings of those reviews and
hold a plenary session on May 21 to discuss the administrative budget review
report.

Committees will then review attached separate sections of the budget -
covering business and non-business operations - from between May 18 and May
25.

Meanwhile,

The Cabinet has instructed government agencies to begin allocating
71.8-billion N-T for certain budgetary items prioritized by opposition
lawmakers as soon as the general budget is formally referred to legislative
committees next week.

Lawmakers approved the early release of funds for certain projects early last
month.

Posted on 2026-04-17 06:59:05

surveillance

The National Academy of Maritime Research says it plans to build up to nine
new radar stations and improve data integration between 57 existing radar
stations by 2028.

The move is aimed at boosting maritime rescue and navigational safety as well
as environmental monitoring capacity.

According to academy president Chen Zhang-ling, the initiative began last
year and seeks to address perceived format compatibility and information
sharing issues.

Chen says the project also aims to build eight to nine new radar stations at
traditional blind spots, including maritime areas near the Pengjia Islet, the
Luzon Strait and the Taiwan Shoal.

When completed, the project will expand the total monitored surface current
area from 155,000 square kilometers to 210,000 square kilometers and improve
both the resolution and density of return signals.

Funding for the initiative totals more than 400-million N-T has been approved
by the Legislature.

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