Organized by the Bureau of Audiovisual and Music Industry Development under the Ministry of Culture, this year’s edition of the awards attracted nearly 1,000 submissions, with 129 shortlisted nominees vying for 26 awards.
National Education Radio swept the field with six awards divided evenly between best radio programs and hosts. Chengsheng Broadcasting Corp. bagged six as well, with two for best radio programs and one each for best radio hosts, sound effect, brand marketing innovation and digital application.
Radio Taiwan International collected four awards split between best radio programs and radio hosts categories, while Happy Broadcasting Co. Ltd. picked up a pair: one for best radio hosts and the other for best script writing.
In addition to the normal awards, MOC Minister Hung Meng-chi presented a special contribution honor to former radio host Lee Chi-chun for his dedication to the industry spanning four decades.
“The sound of Lee’s smooth and powerful baritone voice inspired hope and trust among listeners, serving as source of stability in society during a time of great change,” Hung said.
Lee Fang-yi, who delivered the acceptance speech on behalf of her 72-year-old father, said radio was everything to the legendary broadcaster. “Although he is afflicted by Alzheimer’s, I know he is pleased to be attending this event and surrounded by old friends.
“The most important thing is that his audience still remembers him.”
During the 1960s and 1970s, Lee hosted several radio shows at Taipei-based Broadcasting Corporation of China, including his signature late-night program. He later became a popular TV personality at Taipei-headquartered China Television Co., winning several Golden Bell Awards. (SFC-JSM)
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