Taiwan Quick Take

■ Crime
Abducted Taiwanese freed
Three Taiwanese kidnapped in Manila Friday night were released yesterday after paying US$14,545 in ransom, Philippines police said. National Anti-Kidnapping Task Force spokesman Danilo Servando said at least 10 armed men tried to abduct four men last Friday night, but one of the intended victims managed to flee. He said the gang included a Taiwanese man, who also served as a negotiator during the ransom process. The payoff was said to have occurred in Ortigas Center, a business center in the eastern part of Manila. The three victims were in protective custody in Manila's Pasay district yesterday.

■ Contest
Foreigners can win
Central Broadcasting System's (CBS) Radio Taiwan International is holding a Mandarin Chinese/Taiwanese speech contest for foreigners on Jan. 10 and 11. The contest is to celebrate the Lunar New Year, help foreigners reach a better understanding of traditional Chinese culture and promote their love of Taiwanese culture. Only foreign workers or students who have lived in Taiwan no more than six years and have been recommended by schools or their employer are allowed to enter. Employees of CBS are not allowed to participate. Registration should be completed by Dec. 25. People who are interested can visit the Web site at www.cbs.org.tw. They should fax the registration form to (02) 28862382 or send it by registered mail to CBS postmarked no later than Dec. 25 at No. 55, Pei-an Road, Taipei 104. Call (02) 28856168 ext 708 or 772 for more information.