It looks like there is no shortage of applicants for the new CPP program. Second interviews for expatriate applicants are going on this month in HKG. Personally, I can't see any reason why CX would hire DESO's at the present time as the CPP program is also offered as a short course to applicants with previous flight experience and CPL/ATPL. The cost savings are huge as there is no housing allowance.
As for DEFO's, we are parking more pax aircraft (340's and 744) which probably will be offset with new aircraft deliveries, there is a growing pool of over 100 SO's waiting for their JFO upgrade, plus there is rumours flying around that the bases will be opened, so HKG based crews can move back to their home country if desired, saving CX expatriate benefits. What effect this has on the DEFO hiring? I have no clue, but why would CX run DEFO courses when we all got invited to take unpaid leave for 2010. If there will be any DEFO courses in the near future, be prepared to get offered the 744 in North America as most freighter FO's signed over to the new COS and 777 conversions will be awarded in seniority.