National flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL | PR) has debunked a viral report published by Thai news outlet Thai PBS World, which claimed that an active PAL aviator, Capt. Larry Malpaya, was living homeless on the streets of Bangkok.
The viral story spread rapidly across social media platforms after the Thai outlet picked up a Facebook post from a local netizen. The report falsely alleged that a former airline pilot had fallen into hardship, lost his savings, and was found living under a BTS Skytrain station. The report incorrectly attached the identity and photos of active PAL pilot Capt. Larry Malpaya to the individual found in Thailand.
Addressing the viral misinformation, Philippine Airlines issued an official statement setting the record straight:
Statement of Philippine Airlines on the Thai PBS Story
Philippine Airlines is aware of an online article published by Thai PBS World that incorrectly identifies an individual named Larry Malpaya as a former Philippine Airlines pilot.
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.
We have formally requested Thai PBS World to immediately correct the article and all related social media posts to prevent the further spread of this false information.
Philippine Airlines values responsible journalism and appreciates 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.
Following the formal request from Philippine Airlines, Thai PBS World has since taken down the article and its associated social media posts across its platforms.
AvGeekPH calls on the aviation community to exercise caution and verify online reports before spreading them, particularly when an active pilot’s name and reputation are on the line.