"Big Kung" to Ordain Dedicating Merit to Fallen Soldiers and Civilians on Thai-Cambodian Border

Today (14 May 2026), 10:00 AM at the Royal Thai Army Headquarters, General Boonsin Padklang, Advisor to the Commander-in-Chief of the Army, addressed the rumors of his ordination after a doctored image created by AI was circulated on social media, leading many to believe he had been ordained. He clearly stated that he has not yet been ordained but expressed his deep gratitude and thanks to all Thai people for their continued support and blessings.

General Boonsin said that he had previously visited Luang Pu Sila, who kindly bestowed upon him the necessary monastic requisites for the ordination ceremony. He also expressed his firm intention to ordain. He will be ordained as a monk for approximately one Buddhist Lent period to dedicate merit to the brave soldiers stationed along the borders throughout the country, especially those who died and were injured in the fighting along the Thai-Cambodian border, as well as the civilians affected by those events.

“I intend to ordain to repay my debt to the nation, dedicating merit to my fellow soldiers and civilians who have suffered losses,” General Boonsin said.

General Boonsin added that he thanked the public for their support and for their participation in the merit-making ceremony through all channels. He confirmed that once the official ordination date arrives, he will announce the temple where he will reside during the Buddhist Lent.

The ordination is initially expected to take place slightly before the start of the Buddhist Lent, which in 2026 falls on July 30th. The exact date and time are still being considered by the ordination master. The ordination will take place in Udon Thani province. After the ceremony and entering monastic life, those with faith who wish to participate in merit-making, offering alms, or engaging in Dharma discussions are welcome to come and participate.