HR are the ones who do the hiring not the pilots...So the statement of airlines refusin p2f pilots is a load of croc.
Scoot airlines (Singapore airlines) has 4 EU guys who went to Lion Air now flying their 777. Jet2.com has 4 pilots. HKE KAL QR also have p2f pilots.
Having the hours is one thing, passing any interview is an art of its own. FACT is no company will offer you an interview if they wasnt serious about hiring you.