Popular TV host and actress Kim Chiu has taken a painful legal step, filing a criminal complaint for qualified theft against her own sister, Lakambini Chiu, following the discovery of significant financial discrepancies within their shared business venture. The complaint was formally lodged on Tuesday at the Office of the Assistant City Prosecutor in Quezon City.
Kim, accompanied by her legal counsels Xylene Dolor and Archernar Gregana, submitted her sworn statement along with extensive documentation and evidence. “Today, nag-file si Kim ng criminal case against Lakambini Chiu,” Dolor confirmed to reporters, specifying, “We filed a criminal complaint for qualified theft. That’s all we can share for now.”
The financial issues reportedly stem from a business co-managed by Lakambini. While counsel Dolor did not explicitly name the company, stating he was “not authorized to name the business,” he alluded to the widespread speculation: “I think fans would know kung ano po ‘yung business ventures na she shared with Miss Lakambini Chiu.” Rumors have long pointed to Kim’s well-known bag business as the source of the rift between the siblings.
The qualified theft complaint focuses on the current fiscal year. Dolor noted they are “looking at 2025,” emphasizing the active role Lakambini held, stating, “Generally, I can say that she (Lakambini Chiu) is part of the management of the business.”
In a poignant statement released Monday, Kim revealed the immense personal toll of the decision. “This decision did not come easily. It is one of the most painful steps I have ever taken in my life,” she stated. She confirmed that “substantial amounts connected to my business assets that were found missing,” necessitating the legal action to “protect not just my company, but also the livelihoods of the people who work with me.”
Counsel Dolor confirmed that numerous attempts were made to resolve the issue privately. “She reached out and the lawyers reached out also,” he said, highlighting Kim’s struggle: “it has also been a statement of Miss Kim na it has been a very difficult decision for her to do this and to proceed with this step.” When asked how she was coping with the family crisis, the actress offered a deeply honest, off-camera reply to ABS-CBN News: “Sobrang bigat.”
Kim has appealed to the public for privacy and respect as her family navigates this challenging period, holding onto the hope that “through the proper legal channels, clarity and fairness will prevail.”