A formal complaint has been filed against Bacolod City Congressman Alfredo “Albee” Benitez by his legal wife, Dominique “Nikki” Lopez Benitez, accusing him of violating the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act 9262).
According to a complaint-affidavit submitted to authorities, Nikki Benitez detailed a painful history of emotional and psychological distress she allegedly suffered due to her husband’s repeated acts of infidelity. She accused the congressman of fathering two illegitimate children and maintaining an illicit relationship with actress Ivana Alawi—allegations she said were indirectly admitted by the respondent through a petition for nullity of marriage he filed.
“Under the law, the husband and wife are obliged to live together, observe mutual love, respect and fidelity,” the complaint read. “Engaging in an intimate act with an individual other than one’s lawful spouse… constitutes a violation of both legal and moral obligations and inevitably inflicts harm, if not irreparable damage.”
Nikki Benitez further stated that she felt “utterly betrayed” and was “devastated beyond compare” upon discovering what she claimed to be the truth behind her husband’s actions.
The complaint documents the couple’s history, beginning in 1992 when they met through a mutual friend. At that time, she was working for Continental Airlines and began dating Benitez shortly after their introduction.
As of this writing, Congressman Benitez has not publicly responded to the accusations, and Ivana Alawi has also remained silent.