• Family dispute escalates to legal proceedings

• Kim Chiu accuses her sister, Lakamibini, of financial irregularities

Filipina actress Kim Chiu filed a formal theft complaint against her sister, Lakamibini Chiu, after discovering what she described as "serious financial irregularities" in one of her business ventures.

Her management office confirmed the development on Tuesday, December 2, noting that Chiu went to the Quezon City prosecutor’s office in the Department of Justice building that morning, accompanied by her legal team, and her official statement was documented with photographs.

In a statement shared with local media, Chiu explained that the decision to pursue legal action came after lengthy reviews and careful consideration.

She said: "After careful study and months of internal review, I made the difficult decision to file a formal theft complaint against my sister, Lakamibini Chiu, due to serious financial violations discovered in my business. This decision was not easy and is one of the most painful steps in my life."

The actress added that moving forward with legal proceedings was necessary "to protect my company and safeguard the livelihoods of those working with me."

Meanwhile, Chiu’s lawyer declined to provide further details about the case or specify the business involved, citing ongoing investigations.

Tensions between the sisters had surfaced earlier in the year when observers noticed they had unfollowed each other on Instagram, sparking speculation of a work-related dispute.

It is noted that Lakamibini had publicly thanked Kim in 2023 for her support during an illness, stating that "Kim’s energy and support" helped her through that difficult time.