Rainbow After the Storm: Asia Cement Hosts Market to Support Recovery of Tribe 
 In the melodious tune of "Chant of Gratitude", everyone joined hands and danced, shouting "Go SHLIN Township !" to kick off this cultural market filled with Truku flavor. 

The " Truku Mountain Market" took place at Far Eastern SOGO Department Store's Taipei Tianmu branch on August 17 and 18. Organized by Asia Cement Corporation and Prngagan Alang Bsngan of Hualien County's SHLIN Township, the event showcased the vibrant culture of the Truku tribe. Despite facing a series of natural disasters, including earthquakes, heavy rains, and typhoons, which severely impacted the region, the Truku people demonstrated remarkable resilience. The market, filled with nearly 30 stalls and performances by 3 local groups, served as a testament to their unwavering spirit. 

 Lee Kun-yen, President of Asia Cement, expressed the company's commitment to supporting local communities, stating, "Asia Cement has long been dedicated to fostering the development of local communities. We are honored to provide resources and support to help the tribe rebuild their homes and preserve their heritage." Chairperson of Far Eastern SOGO Department Store, Sophia C.W. Huang said  "The resilience of the indigenous people is like an uncrushable rose. It's truly inspiring." By hosting the market at Tianmu, Taiwan's only green department store, SOGO, is not just providing a space for indigenous communities to demonstrate their culture but is also joining hands with them to create a more sustainable future. 

The Truku Mountain Market, now in its third year, has grown from a local project to a national event. Originally designed to promote indigenous cultural products to tourists visiting Taroko Gorge, the market has expanded to reach a wider audience. This year, more vendors from the tribe participated, offering a diverse range of traditional crafts, agricultural products, and delicacies. 

 
In addition to traditional handicrafts, agricultural products, and tribal delicacies, the market also offers hands-on workshops, allowing visitors to create their own unique memory by making souvenirs. The performances of Truku songs and dances, as well as traditional musical instruments, attracted many people to stop and watch, with children dancing along to the music. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Truku name restoration, the SHLIN Township Office held a special event inviting people to try on traditional Truku clothing and experience authentic Truku culture in the city. 

 The township head of Xiulin Township in Hualien County Wang Mei-kuei, Bsngan village head Zhang Wen-cheng, Prngagan Alang Bsngan Chen Shi -cheng, and many township representatives were present to cheer for the vendors. Mayor Wang emphasized that despite the devastation caused by natural disasters, the Truku people have shown their unwavering spirit, showcasing their tribe's most proud products as a testament to their cultural wisdom and courage. 
 This meaningful cultural and creative market has received full support from the SHLIN Township Office and the Council Indigenous Peoples. Geological Survey and Mining Management Agency, Ministry of Economic Affairs also set up a booth to promote geological education and safety, attracting many parents and children. Far Eastern SOGO Department Store generously provided the venue pro bono. All proceeds and tourism benefits will go directly to the tribal vendors and Alang Bsngan. The warmth from all quarters is helping Hualien to stand firm and regain confidence and hope for the future.