Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez on Thursday, February 8, appealed for understanding and respect for privacy amid recent social media posts linking him to a vlogger and actress.
“As for recent personal matters, I kindly request understanding and respect for privacy to shield all innocent parties involved,” Benitez.
“In my private capacity as a film and TV program producer, my professional interaction with various celebrities is inherent to the nature of the business,” he said.
Benitez said at the moment his primary focus is safeguarding the interests of Bacolod City.
His son, Victorias Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez, in support of his mother Dominique “Nikki” Lopez Benitez also posted a photo of himself with her on Facebook on Thursday with this caption: “Finally seeing my mom. One of the strongest I know. Proud of you.”
Earlier Mrs. Benitez issued a statement that said “In light of the recent article and its distressing contents, I wish to clarify that there have been no discussions between my husband and I regarding separation or annulment”.
“The quotes attributed to him in the media, suggesting romantic links with several actresses, came as a surprise. We have been living under one roof for 31 years, maintaining our family’s unity through all of life’s challenges,” she said.
“My commitment to handling our personal matters with dignity and respect remains unchanged. I am especially focused on shielding our children from any pain or anguish brought about by this matter”, she added.
The actress mentioned in social media posts was Ivana Alawi.*