Gawad Kalinga founder Antonio “Tony” Meloto was arrested in Angat, Bulacan, on Friday after a warrant was issued for two counts of qualified trafficking, according to the Philippine National Police.
The Regional Trial Court in Malolos City ordered the arrest with no bail recommended, and the suspect was identified by the PNP as the 76-year-old founder of the organization.
The case stems from a Department of Justice finding in September 2025, which recommended charges based on prima facie evidence of alleged exploitation.
The complaints were filed by former beneficiaries of a Gawad Kalinga program who accused Meloto of abuse of authority and sexual misconduct between 2016 and 2017.
Meloto has previously denied the allegations, which the DOJ upgraded from acts of lasciviousness to qualified sex trafficking.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 31, 2026
PNP CONFIRMS ARREST OF GAWAD KALINGA FOUNDER IN TRAFFICKING CASE
You might be interested in
Latest from News
PAGASA has confirmed the onset of the southwest monsoon or habagat season, bringing occasional to frequent
The Senate Committee on Public Order will summon key law enforcement agencies, including the NBI, DOJ,
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to seek a stronger partnership with Vietnam, particularly in defense
The Department of Education (DepEd) is intensifying efforts to expand access to international scholarships and exchange
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada posted ₱90,000 bail at the Sandiganbayan on Friday, May 29, over graft charges