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EntertainmentMaria Santos

24 Jan, 2026

3 min read

Kim Chiu Files Qualified Theft Complaint Against Sister Amid Family Financial Dispute

The ongoing Chiu family conflict has escalated from rumors to a formal legal battle as actress and businesswoman Kim Chiu filed a qualified theft complaint against her sister, Lakambini "Lakam" Chiu. Industry insiders describe the situation as one of the most significant celebrity family disputes in recent memory.

Signs of tension between the sisters had been evident for months, with fans noting cryptic social media posts and a sudden cessation of their once-close interactions. The situation drew public attention in August when Kim unfollowed Lakam on Instagram, sparking widespread speculation. However, few anticipated the conflict would evolve into a criminal case.

Kim appeared before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office on December 2 to formally file the complaint. Sources close to the actress noted that she appeared emotionally distressed but resolute, taking a step she had previously vowed never to pursue against a family member.

According to confidential sources, the dispute stems from alleged financial irregularities involving Kim’s businesses. One insider revealed that the missing funds were "substantial and undeniable," large enough to severely strain family relations. While Kim has not disclosed which companies were implicated, the amounts involved reportedly posed a significant threat to her business operations and employees.

The sisters were last seen together publicly during a Father’s Day event in June, appearing amicable despite underlying tensions. Friends of the family disclosed that although the sisters maintained a composed front, their relationship had already begun to deteriorate.

The divide became public by August with the Instagram unfollowing incident. Kim initially chose to remain silent but has now spoken out, expressing her heartbreak and stating she was compelled to act after discovering significant sums missing from her business accounts. She attempted to resolve the matter privately, but legal counsel advised that ignoring the discrepancies could endanger her business empire.

The case has reportedly created rifts within the Chiu family circle, with some friends defending Lakam as a victim of misunderstanding, while others believe Kim would not have resorted to legal action without just cause.

Kim Chiu now faces a potentially protracted legal process, hoping for an outcome that brings justice and reconciliation. Observers anticipate further revelations as investigations continue into the financial affairs at the heart of this dispute.

This unfolding situation has captured public attention, painting a poignant picture of two sisters once inseparable, now divided by allegations of theft, betrayal, and mistrust that are reverberating throughout the Philippine entertainment industry.