Javi Benitez Shares Thoughts on Parents’ Legal Dispute

In the middle of a heated family issue that's been making headlines, Victorias City Mayor Javi Benitez has finally broken his silence. The 30-year-old son of Bacolod Representative Albee Benitez and Dominique “Nikki” Benitez made a heartfelt post on Facebook, speaking up about the ongoing marital drama involving his parents.

For those who may have missed the news, Nikki recently filed a legal complaint against her estranged husband Albee under the Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Act. She accused the congressman of infidelity, even naming actress Ivana Alawi in her affidavit as allegedly being romantically involved with him. Albee has denied the claims through a statement released by his lawyer, labeling the accusations as baseless and emotionally driven.

As expected, the issue has been the talk of social media, with vloggers and online personalities adding fuel to the fire. Some have speculated wildly, while others have shared the story as if it were a trending series.

Javi, known both as a local leader and an actor, expressed how difficult it was to remain silent but felt it was time to speak. He shared that those who truly know the full story have chosen to stay quiet, unlike others who are quick to comment online. His message wasn't about choosing sides. Instead, he made a heartfelt plea for understanding between his parents, not just as former partners, but as co-parents to him and his sister Bettina.

He also reflected on the idea of love, hoping that someday, he and others in similar situations could find a love built not on wealth or status, but on respect, warmth, and genuine partnership.

Javi thanked everyone who quietly reached out with prayers and concern. “I know we’re not the only ones going through something like this,” he wrote. “But I hope things can still be fixed.”

He urged everyone to move on from gossip and fake news, saying there are far more important issues to focus on in the country. “At the end of the day, it’s not views, likes, or money that define a person, but the heart,” he added.

Meanwhile, in the legal documents, Nikki stated that she discovered her husband’s alleged infidelity when he filed a petition to nullify their marriage. According to her, Albee admitted in the petition that he fathered two children with another woman while they were still married. She also mentioned the emotional and mental suffering she experienced, which prompted her to take legal action.

Albee's camp responded by saying the couple had been having disagreements for a long time, particularly about properties and assets allegedly bought by Albee but under Nikki’s name. These included real estate, luxury cars, condos, and even shares in public companies. He emphasized that despite their property separation in 2004, he continued to support Nikki financially.

His lawyer criticized the inclusion of third parties in Nikki’s claims, saying it only aimed to provoke public reaction. They also pointed out that discussing the case publicly violated the confidentiality rule under RA 9262. Albee remains open to cooperating legally to defend himself and clear his name.

While the legal battle continues, Javi’s message offers a reminder that behind every public scandal is a family trying to make sense of the chaos. And sometimes, all they want is peace.