Hsu Chia-ching, Chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), is embroiled in controversy after being accused of using public funds exceeding NT$1 million for a so-called 'fake inspection, real tourism' trip. Now, a new scandal has emerged: she is alleged to have given preferential treatment to her son by relaxing eligibility criteria for the 'Overseas Youth Dongsha Experience Camp,' sparking accusations of abusing public office for personal gain. Media commentator Fan Ch'i-ming, known as 'Old Soldier,' cited reports on Facebook stating that the Control Yuan has concluded its investigation, finding Hsu failed to avoid a conflict of interest, and is expected to impose a fine ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$2 million.

What is the Dongsha Ecological Experience Camp? Who can participate?

In 2025, the OCAC launched its first 'Overseas Youth Dongsha Ecological Experience Camp' in collaboration with the Ocean Affairs Council, the Coast Guard Administration, and the National Park Service under the Ministry of the Interior. Led by Chairperson Hsu Chia-ching, the five-day, four-night program transported youth from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Malaysia to Dongsha Island via a Coast Guard vessel. Participants engaged in hands-on learning about the Dongsha Atoll National Park, coral reef ecosystems, marine conservation, and the Coast Guard's law enforcement and maritime defense missions in the South China Sea. The goal was to deepen overseas youth understanding of Taiwan's maritime sovereignty, ocean conservation, and national security.

Did Hsu Chia-ching give her son special access? Control Yuan releases findings

However, allegations have surfaced that Hsu manipulated the application process to benefit her son. Initially, Hsu dismissed the claims as a 'false leak,' and the OCAC stated that all eligibility and selection procedures followed established rules. Now, media reports reveal that after an extensive investigation, the Control Yuan has officially ruled that Hsu violated the Public Officials Conflict of Interest Avoidance Act and will likely face a fine between NT$100,000 and NT$2 million. In response, Hsu told reporters she has not yet received any official notification or documentation.

Public reaction to Hsu's alleged abuse of power

The controversy has ignited heated online debate. PTT users have flooded comment sections with criticism: 'Not only does she enjoy lavish trips and perks, but she also brings her precious son along. Now ruled illegal by the Control Yuan—how will she justify this?' 'Unbelievable—she won’t even pay her own travel expenses.' 'Shouldn’t she resign?' 'No surprise—she’s the DPP’s golden child.' 'Do they really need a year-long investigation for such a petty case?' 'Using public office for personal gain.' 'Spending taxpayer money on overseas trips and desserts.' 'Shouldn’t she step down?' 'Treating public funds like personal pocket money.' 'Using Taiwan’s money to travel abroad and leveraging power to secure special access.'

More exclusive reports from Feng Media:

· Mainland Affairs Council inspects Vietnam, OCAC submits 8-page report? Shen Cheng-nan reveals true travel content: Hsu was actually on a solo European and American vacation · Hsu Chia-ching's dessert outings classified as confidential? Chen Feng-hsin laments: 'The DPP is used to acting arrogantly—they assume they shouldn’t be supervised' · Hsu Chia-ching spent 26 days and NT$1.15 million—claims itinerary involves sensitive matters? TPP reveals full schedule: movie outings and dessert stops—where’s the secrecy?

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  • Source: PR Times
  • Category: News