PAL denies pilot identified in Thai media report

• Screen grab from Thai PBS World post.

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has denied an online report published by Thai PBS World that identified one of its active pilots as a former airline captain who was allegedly found homeless in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Thai PBS World report claimed that a former Philippine Airlines and AirAsia pilot was found living on the streets of Bangkok after reportedly losing his savings through poor stock market decisions and divorcing his Thai wife. It also said the individual had been rescued by Thailand’s Mirror Foundation and taken to a hospital for treatment of diabetes.

In a statement, however, PAL said the report incorrectly identified Capt. Larry Malpaya as the person featured in the story.

“The information is FALSE. Capt. Larry Malpaya is an active Philippine Airlines pilot and is not the individual referred to or depicted in the article,” the airline said.

PAL said it has formally requested Thai PBS World to immediately correct the article and all related social media posts to prevent the further spread of the false information.

The airline also underscored the importance of responsible journalism and the prompt correction of factual inaccuracies.

“We remain committed to protecting the reputation and welfare of our employees and ensuring that accurate information is shared with the public,” PAL said.