TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) visited three military bases in Taoyuan on Tuesday afternoon, praising disaster relief troops for their dedication and compassion in recent recovery efforts, per a press release.
Lai commended the Army’s engineering corps as “knights in the night” and special forces engaged in search and rescue as “lifesaving heroes.” He thanked the military for its swift response to Typhoon Ragasa, which caused the Mataian Creek in Hualien to overflow, leading to casualties, missing persons, and widespread damage.
After viewing a documentary on disaster relief operations, Lai listened to soldiers share their experiences, presented them with handwritten thank-you cards, and announced extra pay as a reward for their hard work.
He said he was moved by stories of service members who volunteered as “shovel heroes” during their leave, with some even joining recovery efforts despite personal losses or being on their honeymoon. Many troops deployed to Hualien were from affected areas themselves, he said, yet they prioritized helping others.
Lai expressed gratitude to the Army and local volunteers, saying their compassion and unity in the face of disaster exemplify Taiwan’s spirit. “Every unit saved lives and helped rebuild homes so people could return to normal life as soon as possible,” he said.
The president added that over decades, Taiwan has cultivated a culture in which “the military loves the people, and the people respect the military.” He also echoed public concern that soldiers should avoid overwork, noting that such concern reflects the deep affection citizens hold for the armed forces.
Lai pledged continued government support for the military, citing NT$10 billion (US$323 million) allocated this year to increase salaries and allowances.
“Disaster relief is like warfare,” Lai said. “The military cooperates and divides tasks to complete the mission, and the people stand with them. And when the military protects the nation, the people will not stand idly by, they will join in defending Taiwan.”
