TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's defense minister, Wellington Koo (顧立雄), confirmed Monday (Nov. 25) that fighter jets will escort the national baseball team as a tribute to their historic victory, emphasizing that this gesture "will not affect any combat readiness."
On Sunday, the Taiwan national team shut out Japan 4-0 to claim the World Baseball Softball Confederation Premier12 championship title. Soon after, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) expressed plans to organize a fighter jet escort to honor the returning heroes. He also revealed that the Presidential Office will host a reception and a hero parade to celebrate the triumphant return of Taiwan's baseball champions.
Koo spoke to the media before reporting at the Legislative Yuan's Foreign and National Defense Committee, commenting that the game had everyone nervous, adding that the jet escort "is something our military should do" to inspire the nation. When asked about fan comments on President Lai's social media post suggesting a national holiday, Koo laughed heartily at the question directed at Taiwan's defense ministry.
The planned celebrations highlight Taiwan's pride in its national team and demonstrate the government's support for sports achievements. As the nation anticipates the return of its baseball heroes, the public can look forward to a grand parade and presidential reception, marking a significant moment in Taiwan's sports history.