This is a heavy one, and it is a family story too. We are sticking to what has been reported, and we are not taking sides.
Photo: PEP.phWhen and where was Lakam Chiu arrested?
According to ABS-CBN News, as cited by PEP.ph, Lakam, 45, was arrested at around 4:06 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, in Barangay Wack Wack, Mandaluyong City. The arrest was made by virtue of a warrant issued by Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 84. The court set a recommended bail of PHP5.838 million.
What is the case about?
The warrant is connected to 124 counts of qualified theft filed by Kim against Lakam. The case involves the alleged taking of corporate funds of House of Little Bunny Philippines, Inc. (HOLB), a company owned by Kim and Lakam. In Philippine law, qualified theft is theft committed under certain conditions, such as with grave abuse of confidence, and it carries heavier penalties.
On September 1, 2026, the Office of the City Prosecutor of Quezon City issued a resolution saying there was enough basis to charge Lakam with 124 counts, with a total amount of PHP44,396,331.65. The counts involve separate withdrawals and online transfers from HOLB's corporate bank accounts. Per PEP, the prosecutor found that no board resolution, secretary's certificate or other authorization was shown that allowed the use of company funds for personal gain or investments.
What is Lakam Chiu's side?
Lakam denied the allegations in her statement in the prosecutor's resolution. According to PEP, she said:
- She is the corporate secretary of HOLB, not the treasurer or general manager.
- The term "unauthorized" is questionable, because the bank accounts were joint accounts with Kim.
- She and Kim had an agreement that the money could also be used for their other business ventures.
- Money used for casino-related transactions was for a business venture she expected to bring returns, not for personal gambling.
Her lawyer said in a statement:
Our client is saddened by her sister's decision to pursue the case but remains hopeful that the matter can still be resolved amicably within the family. She will address the charges through the proper legal process.
What did Kim Chiu say when she filed the case?
Kim filed the complaint in December 2025 after reportedly discovering large financial discrepancies in their business. At the time, she called it one of the hardest decisions she has made:
This is one of the most painful steps I have ever taken in my life.
What happens next?
PEP stressed that the arrest and the filing of the case do not mean Lakam has been proven guilty. She will keep facing the 124 counts in court, and both sides have the right to be heard.
Why this is hard to read
It is one thing when a legal fight happens between strangers. It is another when it is between sisters who built a business together. Many families in the Philippines have seen money and family mix, and it rarely ends well for anyone.
We will update this post when there is more news. For now, what do you think about family and business mixing? Share your thoughts in the comments, and please keep it respectful to both families.
Quick answers
Why was Lakam Chiu arrested?
She was arrested on a court warrant tied to 124 counts of qualified theft filed by Kim Chiu over alleged withdrawals and transfers from their company's bank accounts.
How much is the recommended bail for Lakam Chiu?
The court set a recommended bail of PHP5.838 million, according to ABS-CBN News as cited by PEP.ph.
Does Lakam Chiu deny the charges?
Yes. She denied the allegations in her statement in the prosecutor's resolution, and her lawyer said she will address the charges through the proper legal process.
Updated September 20, 2026. Sources and photo credits: PEP.ph | ABS-CBN News (Facebook) | GMA Entertainment (charges) | Fashion Pulis. All photos belong to their respective owners.