Bangkok: General Boonsin Padklang, advisor to the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, has confirmed on social media that the AI-generated image of him circulating online shows him not yet ordained as a monk. He expressed gratitude to the Thai people for their blessings and support.
According to Thai News Agency, General Boonsin addressed the rumors surrounding his ordination after the AI-generated images led many to believe he had already been ordained. He revealed his intention to be ordained for one Buddhist Lent period before the start of the 2026 Buddhist Lent, dedicating the merit to the brave soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the clashes on the Thai-Cambodian border. The ordination is set to take place in Udon Thani province.
General Boonsin has paid respects to Luang Pu Sila, who provided him with the necessary monastic requisites for his future ordination ceremony. He emphasized his dedication to the soldiers stationed along the borders, particularly those who were injured or lost their lives, as well as the affected civilians. "I intend to be ordained as a monk to repay my debt to the nation and dedicate the merit to my fellow soldiers and civilians who have suffered losses," he stated.
The ordination ceremony is tentatively scheduled to occur shortly before the start of the Buddhist Lent in 2026, which falls on July 30th. However, the exact date and time are yet to be confirmed by the preceptor. General Boonsin assured the public that an announcement regarding the temple where he will reside will be made once the official ordination date is finalized.
He also extended his thanks to the public for their encouragement and support through various channels. After the ordination ceremony, those with faith who wish to participate in merit-making, offer alms, or engage in Dharma discussions are welcome to offer their blessings once the ordination is complete.