Three candidates in Taiwan's presidential election appealed for support during large rallies on the last Sunday before the January 13 vote. Key points of contention include ties with China.

All the candidates held gatherings in the southern city of Kaohsiung, which has the most voters in southern Taiwan.

The candidates are Lai Ching-te of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, Hou Yu-ih of the biggest opposition Kuomintang party, and Ko Wen-je of the second-largest opposition Taiwan People's Party.

The DPP's Lai emphasized his stance of confronting pressure from China and boosting cooperation with democratic countries, such as the United States.

He said people in Taiwan must unite with one heart in the face of Chinese threats.

Kuomintang's Hou called for increasing exchanges with China. He denounced the DPP administration and underscored the need for a change of power.

He said he will safeguard peace even though the Taiwan Strait is said to be the most dangerous place in the world.

The TPP's Ko criticized the two largest parties and stressed the need for new politics in Taiwan. He said voters should support him to take back Taiwan as it is not only for the DPP or Kuomintang.

Lai is believed to be ahead of Hou and Ko. They are in a tight contest to cement their electoral bases and woo swing voters.