TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) visited the memorial Tuesday (Oct. 7) of Lin Hung-sen (林鴻森), an excavator company owner who died from sepsis after sustaining an injury during disaster relief efforts in Hualien. The president offered condolences and honored Lin's sacrifice in the line of volunteer service. The tragedy has prompted calls for improved safety measures for disaster relief workers.
Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng (張善政) led a city delegation offering condolences and presenting NT$100,000 (around US$3,333) to Lin's family. Hualien legislator Fu Kun-chi (傅崐萁) urged central government takeover of disaster relief operations and committed to supporting Lin's children's education expenses. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) sent floral tributes after being unable to attend personally.
Representatives from the Taoyuan Sand and Gravel Association (桃園砂石公會) paid respects while acknowledging institutional failures. Secretary-general Chang Ching-kang (張敬康) admitted the association failed to secure insurance coverage for Lin and issued a public apology. The incident underscores urgent needs for enhanced safety protocols and insurance protection for disaster relief volunteers. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30)