Tainan City Government honors late residents

2015-03-25

The former homes of three late Tainan residents were adorned March 22 with plaques commemorating the individuals’ contributions to the southern Taiwan city and the nation.

Brothers Wu Hsiu-chi and Wu Tsun-hsien were honored for spurring national economic development, while Wu San-lian—unrelated—was recognized for his achievements in the political field.

Tainan City Mayor William Lai said at the plaque ceremony that it is crucial to acknowledge the commitment of those who have given so much to enhancing society. “We owe the robust development of our city and country to the diligence and efforts of these previously unsung heroes.”

The Wu brothers played a key role in Taiwan’s commercial and industrial sectors. They founded Tainan Spinning Co. Ltd. in 1954, with the elder brother Wu Hsiu-chi serving as chairman. Wu Tsun-hsien became president of Universal Cement Corp. in 1959, with his brother co-founding Uni-President Enterprise Corp. in 1967 and serving as general manager.

“The duo was also known for setting up the T. H. Wu Foundation in 1981, which sponsors philanthropic activities of all kinds and supports young talents in their cultural and sporting pursuits,” Lai said.

Not to be overshadowed is Wu San-lian. The former mayor of Taipei City in 1950 went on to serve two terms as councilor at the former Taiwan Provincial Consultative Council in 1954.

“Not only did Wu found Independent Evening News, he was an activist facilitating the country’s democracy and political movements during the Japanese colonial period [1895-1945] and after World War II,” Lai said.

The trio is part of a 126-member group of locals set to be celebrated by the city government with plaques and website listings for contributions across five categories.

“We will continue our efforts spotlighting the contributions of these honorable citizens to the development of Tainan and Taiwan,” Lai said.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=228660&CtNode=413)