Newlyweds in Taitung on '520' Day Positive About Government's Proposed 'Growth Allowance'

(CNA, Taitung, by reporter Lu Tai-cheng, May 20) Today, May 20, a date whose number '520' is a homophone for 'I love you' in Mandarin, saw many newlyweds register their marriage in Taitung. Upon learning that the government plans to introduce a 'Growth Allowance' policy of NT$5,000 per month for every person aged 0 to 18, the couples expressed their approval, with some even joking, 'We'll consider having more kids.' Because '520' sounds like 'I love you,' it has become a romantic day for many couples, sparking a rush for marriage registrations. This morning, newlyweds began arriving at the Taitung Household Registration Office, and by the end of the workday, 25 couples had completed their registration, filling the air with happiness. The Taitung Household Registration Office specially decorated its service counters and photo area with hearts, balloons, and romantic backdrops for couples to capture sweet memories. After completing the procedures, many couples happily took photos and posted them online, sharing their important life moment. One couple told reporters they had already planned to marry this year and ultimately chose '520' for their registration, feeling it was particularly meaningful. 'The three words 'I love you' can now be our wedding anniversary, which is very romantic,' they said. Additionally, in a speech today, President Lai Ching-te addressed the issue of the low birth rate, stating that the government will provide a growth allowance of NT$5,000 per person per month for those aged 0 to 18. The annual budget is estimated at around NT$200 billion, which he said Taiwan can afford without crowding out other budgets. The newlyweds who registered at the Taitung Household Registration Office all affirmed this beneficial measure, with some happily stating, 'If there's really a subsidy, we'll consider having more kids.' Staff at the Taitung Household Registration Office noted that special dates like Valentine's Day on February 14, May 20, and the Qixi Festival are always popular for marriage registrations, with many couples booking in advance. The overall number this year was not significantly different from previous years. Everyone hopes to accomplish a major life event on a meaningful day, filling the office with warmth and joy. (Editor: Wu Su-jou) 1150520