Boy Pakorn Questions If His Flood Donation Reached Hat Yai Victims
Thai actor Boy Pakorn Chatborirak expressed disappointment over his 100,000 baht donation to a foundation run by celebrity Pum Panadda for Hat Yai flood victims, amid allegations that funds may not have reached those in need. Boy said he trusted the foundation due to his personal relationship with Pum and her visible field work, but would be saddened if investigations confirm misappropriation. While some large donors have filed police reports, Boy says he will wait for more clarity before deciding on legal action.
Actor Boy Pakorn Chatborirak, another celebrity named in the donor list for Pum Panadda Wongphudee's charitable foundation, recently spoke at the "BEAUTRIUM 15th ANNIVERSARY BEAUTY TOGETHER" event at Siam Square Walking Street. He addressed his donation alongside his girlfriend, actress Fay Pornpavee Neerasingh, confirming wedding plans for next year.
Asked about his intention when donating to the foundation, Boy said: "At that time I donated because it was during the Hat Yai flood case. I followed the news and saw the hardship. Actually, I've had opportunities like during the 2011 Bangkok floods to go into affected areas and distribute survival bags. We saw the flooded areas were truly difficult. When I saw the Hat Yai news, where I also have friends among the victims, I felt they were struggling a lot. I wanted to help but didn't know how. I chose to donate to a foundation I personally knew and trusted."
Asked if his trust came from Pum's field work, Boy replied: "That's connected. The images everyone saw showed Pum in the field continuously. Everyone who donated must have had confidence. When we donate a large sum — mine was 100,000 baht — we want assurance the money reaches those who truly need it. There are many foundations, but we may not know how to verify which actually delivers. I've worked in dramas with Pum, know her personally, and from the images of her constantly in the field helping struggling people, I felt her channel was trustworthy."
On whether he believes his donation reached victims: "Everyone has now seen the news and followed it. If the final verdict confirms that donated money — including mine — didn't reach actual victims, I'll be disappointed. We're disappointed."
Asked if he worries the money went to a pool villa or similar: "I didn't think about where it went specifically. But hypothetically, if reports are true that 20% went elsewhere, my 100,000 baht is a very small portion of total donations."
On whether many donors feel let down: "Exactly. If the final judgment confirms such a scenario, it's both disappointing and saddening."
With many donors already filing police reports, Boy said: "I'll think further — wait to see more developments. Everyone has reasons for their actions. Those filing reports appear to have donated very large amounts. For myself, I want everything to become truly clear."
