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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider PAL, AirAsia refute viral 'homeless pilot' story in Bangkok

PAL, AirAsia refute viral 'homeless pilot' story in Bangkok

Published Jul 31, 2026 02:49 pm
Screenshot of the viral online post falsely claiming a Philippine Airlines pilot was homeless in Bangkok. Both PAL and AirAsia have denied the report and urged vigilance against fake news.
Screenshot of the viral online post falsely claiming a Philippine Airlines pilot was homeless in Bangkok. Both PAL and AirAsia have denied the report and urged vigilance against fake news.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) and AirAsia have refuted circulating online articles claiming that a former pilot named Larry Malpaya is homeless in Bangkok.
PAL said the reports, published by Thai PBS World, are incorrect.
“Capt. Larry Malpaya is a Philippine Airlines pilot, and he is not the individual referred to or shown in the said article,” the flag carrier stressed.
The airline has formally asked Thai PBS World to correct the story and related social media posts.
The articles also claimed the pilot had worked for AirAsia, but the airline said its records show no such employment under that name.
The misleading reports gained traction online after linking the supposed pilot’s plight to family problems, drawing attention from aviation circles.
PAL underscored its commitment to responsible journalism and the protection of its employees’ reputation, urging the public to remain vigilant against fake news.

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Metro News Fake News Homeless Pilot PAL
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