The Philippine National Police arrested Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto on May 29 in Angat, Bulacan, on sex trafficking charges under Republic Act No. 9208.
The arrest took place on the same day a regional trial court in Malolos City issued a warrant with no bail recommended. The charges stem from complaints filed by two former beneficiaries, identified as Paul and Matthew, who alleged sexual abuse at the GK Enchanted Farm.
The Department of Justice approved two counts of sex trafficking against Meloto in September 2025. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon stated that Meloto held a position of authority and abused the complainants to satisfy his desires.
Meloto, who founded Gawad Kalinga in 2003, described the complaints as a demolition job. The alleged incidents occurred at the farm in Angat, Bulacan, where the complainants attended a development program.
