Here are our five main stories this week:
Medical services will continue without interruption during the Lunar New Year holiday, as Taiwan's health insurance system boosts funding to support frontline workers;
A scam using a fake medical emergency is stopped in time, thanks to quick cooperation between police and banks;
Taiwan High Speed Rail adds discounted trains to help university students return to campus;
Strawberry season is here, with a closer look at Taiwan's different strawberry varieties;
And New Taipei's cherry blossom season begins, with Tianyuan Temple offering beautiful views both day and night.
Let's take a look at the details.
[1] Medical Services Continue Through Lunar New Year
During the Lunar New Year holiday, the Central Health Insurance Administration announced extra funding to make sure medical services continue as usual.
About NT$16 billion will be added to support hospitals, emergency rooms, clinics, and pharmacies.
Primary care clinics will receive bonus payments depending on the holiday period, while hospital emergency services will get full additional support. People with chronic illnesses can also refill their prescriptions early, so they don't run out of medication during the holiday.
[2] Fake Medical Emergency Scam Blocked
In Taipei, police and bank staff worked together to stop a scam just in time, saving a man from losing NT$100,000.
The scammer claimed a relative was seriously ill and urgently needed money.
Police remind the public: if someone asks you to quickly send money or deposit it into an unfamiliar account, stay alert. When in doubt, call the 165 anti-fraud hotline or 110 to check.
[3] High-Speed Rail Offers 50% Discounts for Students
To help students return to school and reduce travel crowds, Taiwan High Speed Rail will run extra trains on February 24 and 25.
A total of 12 additional trains will offer 50 percent discounts for university students.
Students using the discount must bring a valid student ID or proof of enrollment when traveling.
[4] Strawberry Season Arrives
Winter strawberry season is now underway. The Ministry of Agriculture has introduced several popular strawberry varieties grown in Taiwan.
From the well-known sweet and fragrant Fengxiang strawberries to newer specialty types, each variety has its own flavor and texture.
Officials suggest checking the variety labels and choosing strawberries that best match your taste.
[5] New Taipei Cherry Blossom Season Begins
Cherry blossom season has arrived at Tianyuan Temple in Tamsui, New Taipei City.
The hillsides are covered with colorful cherry blossoms, along with nighttime lighting and art installations, making it a great spot to visit both during the day and at night.
City officials say cherry blossoms are also blooming in other parts of New Taipei, and the latest flower updates are available on official platforms.
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