Taiwan’s northern region conducted a resilience exercise, known as the Total Defense Mobilization, today (August 13th). The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) stated that during the exercise held in New Taipei City, AIT Director Raymond Greene emphasized the determination of Taiwanese society to unite in times of crisis. With over 70 international observers participating, the exercise aimed to deepen partnerships to create a safer future.
In the afternoon of August 13th, from 2:30 to 3:00, Taipei City, New Taipei City, Keelung City, Taoyuan City, Hsinchu County, Hsinchu City, and Yilan County simultaneously implemented a 30-minute drill involving internet throttling. The exercise included issuing alerts, evacuations, traffic control, and disaster relief efforts. According to Article 25 of the Civil Defense Act, individuals violating exercise regulations may face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000.
In an official post on its Facebook page, AIT mentioned that Raymond Greene participated in the resilience exercise in New Taipei City, underscoring the importance of preparedness and cooperation across society during emergencies. From medical evacuations at the Shuang Ho Hospital to the simulation of distributing essential goods at the RT-Mart store in Tucheng, the exercise showcased the collective resolve of Taiwanese society to protect communities and overcome crises together.
AIT highlighted that the exercise provided an opportunity for Greene to observe how the New Taipei City government team coordinates disaster response efforts with President Lai Ching-te. With over 70 international observers present, including representatives from Canada and Israel, along with Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, National Security Council Secretary-General David Lee, Minister of National Defense Tang Yao-hsing, and Minister of the Interior Shiu Fang-liang, the exercise aimed to enhance resilience and strengthen partnerships for a safer future.
President Lai Ching-te visited the Shuang Ho Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare to oversee the “New Taipei City 2026 Resilience Exercise – Medical Evacuation and Underground Drills” today. The event was attended by Minister of the Interior Shiu Fang-liang, Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chung-liang, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, Minister of National Defense Tang Yao-hsing, New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-yi, AIT Director Raymond Greene, and others.
President Lai Ching-te also visited a local market in New Taipei City to observe the resilience exercise involving the distribution of essential goods. Greene and several foreign envoys participated in the drill. During his speech, President Lai Ching-te mentioned the international significance of many foreign diplomats participating in the exercise, emphasizing the need for Taiwan to be prepared for regional geopolitical changes and not rely solely on external assistance.
President Lai Ching-te noted the efficient distribution system of essential goods in place at the market, indicating collaboration between the central and local governments, as well as public and private sectors, to enhance societal resilience. Mayor Hou Yu-yi emphasized the importance of unity between the central and local governments in facing challenges, especially given the ongoing global geopolitical risks and complex disasters in New Taipei City.
Mayor Hou Yu-yi highlighted initiatives taken by New Taipei City to establish distribution points for essential goods, such as rice, cooking oil, infant formula, and LPG, supported by central supply stations. The city has set up 1,129 distribution points across the municipality to ensure a robust system for safeguarding essential goods and protecting the welfare of its residents.