This week's five major headlines include:
A guide to making the most of public holidays in the second half of 2026, with the possibility of enjoying up to 17 consecutive days off through smart leave planning; the National Immigration Agency's Multicultural Career Exploration Camp for children of new immigrants, offering company visits and career experiences; updates to Taiwan's driver's license system, requiring driving training before certain retests and introducing hazard perception video questions in the written exam; strengthened border disease prevention measures after African swine fever virus was detected again in a drifting pig found in Kinmen; and upcoming civil resilience air defense drills, during which mobile internet speeds may be reduced as part of the exercise. Citizens are encouraged to prepare emergency information in advance.

Let's take a look at this week's top stories.

1. Smart Leave Planning for the Second Half of 2026 – Up to 17 Consecutive Days Off
Several long holidays fall in the second half of 2026, including the Mid-Autumn Festival, Teachers' Day, National Day, and Constitution Day. With careful leave planning, people may enjoy holidays lasting 9, 10, or even 17 consecutive days. Those planning overseas trips, family visits, or extended vacations are encouraged to book transportation and accommodation early to ensure a smoother holiday.

2. Multicultural Career Exploration Camp Opens Registration for Southern Session
The National Immigration Agency's Multicultural Career Exploration Camp helps young people explore future career opportunities through company visits, lectures, and hands-on activities. The southern session will be held at the Chimei Happiness Factory. High school, vocational school, and college students, including children of new immigrants and local students, are welcome to participate free of charge and gain valuable workplace experience.

3. Driver's License Rules Updated with New Training and Written Exam Requirements
Taiwan's driver's license system has been revised. Drivers whose licenses were revoked and who were banned from retesting for more than three years must complete certified driving training before applying again. The written test has also been upgraded with hazard perception video questions to strengthen road safety awareness and improve drivers' ability to identify potential risks.

4. African Swine Fever Detected Again in Drifting Pig Found in Kinmen
African swine fever virus has again been detected in a drifting pig found in Kinmen. Authorities have strengthened border inspections, disease monitoring, transportation controls, and farm health checks. The public is reminded not to bring pork or pork products into Taiwan illegally and to report any suspected drifting pigs to the relevant authorities to help protect the livestock industry and food safety.

5. Civil Defense Drills to Simulate Reduced Mobile Internet Service
Civil resilience air defense drills will be conducted in different regions. During the exercises, mobile internet service may slow down while voice calls and text messaging remain available. People are encouraged to save nearby shelter locations and evacuation routes in advance and follow official guidance during drills or emergencies.

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