calmpilot,
"padding" happens here in the philippines but i don't think its a good idea. i can't imagine a pilot who doctored his flying hours in an emergency situation! if you really love flying and you care for your passengers, i would suggest you earn those hours.
MPL sounds like a good deal, but it has not proven itself yet for me. i have no idea what airlines would hire MPL holders. looks like foreign investors took the quick way of getting accreditation from ATO and i think that's through their accountants hehe! (pampadulas)