TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The "National Day Preparation Committee" (慶籌會) on Thursday (Sept. 26) addressed concerns about the use of public relations tickets for the upcoming National Day gala.
Secretary-General Wu Tang-an (吳堂安) stated he was unaware of the specifics but trusted the Taipei City Government to handle the matter prudently.
The Taipei City Government announced that the National Day gala will take place on Oct. 5 at the Taipei Dome (台北大巨蛋).
They will open 5,400 seats to the public, with 400 reserved for seniors. Registration for the lottery to obtain tickets began immediately, while the remaining 5,000 tickets will be available online starting Sept. 30.
According to media reports, officials have set aside 14,600 tickets for overseas compatriots, diplomats, and opinion leaders.
Critics have questioned the Taipei City Government's allocation of public relations tickets, noting that each Taipei City councilor receives ten such tickets, and legislators have six tickets for their office staff and their own.
Wu confirmed that the Taipei City Government organizes this year's gala, inviting central government officials, overseas compatriots, and the general public.
When asked if former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and other dignitaries would attend, Wu said invitations had been sent, and it is customary to invite all former presidents and essential guests.