The Pollution Control Department chief angrily rebutted the Anti-Corruption Group's report that ranked his agency first among state agencies for bribery amounts, demanding investigation evidence within 7 days and warning of a formal public apology and responsibility acceptance if none exists. At 10:30 a.m. on May 15, 2569, Surin Vorakitdamrong, director of the Pollution Control Department (PCD), along with deputy directors Thananchai Wannasuk and Theeraphong Wimluljitranon, held a press conference regarding a transparency survey by the Zero Corruption Group released on May 14, which indicated the PCD was the state agency with the highest bribery value at 102,160 baht per instance.

The PCD director stated he had sent an open letter requesting details about the survey methodology to the chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and other key officials, questioning how the PCD was identified as having the highest average bribery amounts. He noted the survey used a Google Document format that could be shared with anyone, potentially causing errors or misidentification of agencies, and questioned the validity of the data analysis and verification process.

"I request the Anti-Corruption Group submit their findings and supporting documents within 7 days. If they have no documentary evidence of such corruption, I demand they accept responsibility for the damage caused by issuing a formal public apology to the PCD and our staff. However, if evidence of actual corruption is provided, I will take decisive action against the guilty officials," Surin stated.

Surin explained that the PCD operates on scientific principles with no authority that would facilitate bribery. He highlighted the department's public service work, including investigations into toxic substances in rivers, flood relief efforts, waste management coordination, and prosecution of private companies causing environmental damage. He questioned the logic of private businesses paying bribes exceeding 100,000 baht to avoid daily fines of 2,000 baht or maximum penalties of 60,000 baht.

Surin emphasized that the PCD has no authority to approve or issue business licenses and coordinates factory inspections with provincial industrial offices. The PCD only measures quality according to scientific standards; if violations are found, the provincial industrial office enforces the law. The PCD cannot order factories to halt operations, leaving no avenue for bribery schemes.

Thai Airways has announced a fuel surcharge reduction of up to 30% for Royal Orchid Plus members redeeming award tickets on international routes from May 25 to July 31, 2026. Recognizing the impact of rising global fuel prices due to Middle East instability on passenger travel costs, the airline is offering this discount specifically for economy class award tickets (Class X) across all international routes. The promotion applies to tickets issued and used during the specified period, helping members offset costs when using accumulated miles for reward redemptions. Thai Airways remains committed to providing continuous benefits and value to Royal Orchid Plus members to enhance their travel experience. Members can redeem award tickets through thaiairways.com or contact the THAI Contact Center at 0-2356-1111 for more information.

Lottery statistics spanning the past 10 years for May 16 drawings show that double-digit winning numbers have previously appeared, with the same numbers drawn in back-to-back years. The Government Lottery Office will conduct the drawing for the May 16, 2025 mid-month lottery at the lottery office headquarters in Nonthaburi. Khaosod Online has compiled historical data from May 2 drawings over the past decade (2016-2568 Buddhist Era) revealing interesting patterns including instances where double digits were drawn. Here are the notable statistics: May 16, 2568: First Prize 205690, Front 3-digit: 884, 746, Rear 3-digit: 657, 009, Last 2-digit: 60. May 16, 2567: First Prize 205690, Front 3-digit: 747, 885, Rear 3-digit: 070, 137, Last 2-digit: 60. May 16, 2566: First Prize 132903, Front 3-digit: 739, 678, Rear 3-digit: 693, 731, Last 2-digit: 99. May 16, 2565: First Prize 155012, Front 3-digit: 247, 736, Rear 3-digit: 236, 540, Last 2-digit: 06. May 16, 2564: First Prize 684579, Front 3-digit: 615, 843, Rear 3-digit: 276, 970, Last 2-digit: 14. May 16, 2563: First Prize 051095, Front 3-digit: 430, 285, Rear 3-digit: 364, 191, Last 2-digit: 22. May 16, 2562: First Prize 962526, Front 3-digit: 669, 949, Rear 3-digit: 018, 828, Last 2-digit: 71. May 16, 2561: First Prize 075629, Front 3-digit: 130, 357, Rear 3-digit: 047, 506, Last 2-digit: 20. May 16, 2560: First Prize 454891, Front 3-digit: 396, 008, Rear 3-digit: 603, 490, Last 2-digit: 53. May 16, 2559: First Prize 141737, Front 3-digit: 975, 382, Rear 3-digit: 268, 087, Last 2-digit: 98.

On May 15, 2025, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan held a certificate presentation ceremony for 24 military personnel—one with a vocational certificate and 23 with advanced vocational certificates. Defense Minister General Adulai Boontherm, Nakhon Ratchasima Governor Anupong Suksamnit, and Regional Commander 2 General Veeruyut Raksilp attended as witnesses.

General Adulai revealed that the project began during his tenure as Deputy Regional Commander 2, overseeing personnel matters. After becoming Regional Commander 2, he signed a cooperation agreement with the university for the initiative titled "One Command, One Educational Institution: Developing People, Strengthening the Military, Building the Nation."

The Defense Minister emphasized that this collaboration provides soldiers with opportunities beyond military service alone. Participants benefit from physical and mental training that builds strength and patriotism; gain educational qualifications that improve employment prospects and self-sufficiency; and develop quality lives with discipline and stable careers.

General Adulai recounted that the cooperation concept emerged during a casual meal with the university president at a local laab restaurant, leading him to call today's success the "Laab Shop Proclamation." He expressed pride that the initiative has flourished and produced its first graduating class, serving as a model for the government's volunteer military program.

University President Khosit Sriputhon noted that General Adulai championed the project consistently from his Deputy Regional Commander position through his tenure as Regional Commander. The university could implement the program immediately due to its campuses throughout the Northeast, aligning with Regional Command 2's responsibility area comprising multiple provinces.

Education was delivered through flexible methods including classroom instruction, field training, and online systems, building upon soldiers' existing discipline with additional knowledge. The president stated that graduates from this "One Command, One Educational Institution" program will become quality community leaders, possessing both knowledge and discipline.

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is expressing concern about the increasing number of residents interested in installing rooftop solar panel systems. MEA has issued guidance on selecting qualified installers to prevent potential hazards that could damage property and endanger lives.

When choosing a solar installation service, look for: - Reputable, stable providers with extensive experience and accessible support - Quality equipment certified to international standards - Qualified technicians or engineers overseeing the work - Minimum 1-2 year warranties covering installation and defects - Maintenance throughout the warranty period - Proper permits and approvals

Substandard solar installations can directly impact residential electrical systems through improper wiring, non-certified equipment, or structural damage that affects existing electrical lines. These problems can lead to short circuits, fires, or electrical shock hazards, risking both life and property. Additionally, non-standard installations may result in poor system performance, failing to reduce electricity bills as promised and creating future repair costs.

At 10:00 a.m. on May 15, 2025 at Parliament, the House Committee on Budget Preparation and Monitoring held its first meeting to elect the committee chair and various positions. Prawat Tongsomboon, a representative from Maha Sarakham of the Phum Jai Thai Party, served as interim chairman as the committee's most senior member and conducted the chair election.

Natthapong Premsulsawat, a Bangkok representative of the People's Party, proposed the committee positions, which were approved as follows:

Ms. Rakchanok Srinawk - Committee Chair Nattapol Towichakchaikul - First Vice Chair Sombat Yaseinthun - Second Vice Chair Pachon Chantharuang Thong - Third Vice Chair Risutthit Tantinan - Fourth Vice Chair Throngsak Musikong - Fifth Vice Chair Prachaya Ngokchhai - Sixth Vice Chair Surottin Picharan - Seventh Vice Chair Chada Thaiserit - Committee Member and Advisory Board Chair Sewongsak Rengpaiboolwong - Committee Member and Advisory Board Member Prawat Tongsomboon - Committee Member and Advisory Board Member Nattapol Charatsraphipong - Committee Member and Advisory Board Member Pattana Sappaso - Committee Member and Advisory Board Member Witthawat Traisonkul - Committee Spokesperson Natthapong Premsulsawadi - Committee Secretary

Ms. Rakchanok then assumed her duties as committee chair and stated she would present her vision and agenda for the committee before proceeding with the meeting agenda. Chada was unable to attend due to other obligations.