The Makati City Prosecutor’s Office has dismissed the criminal complaint filed by Dominique “Nikki” Lopez, estranged wife of Rep. Albee Benitez, over allegations of emotional and psychological abuse. In a resolution dated June 23, prosecutors concluded there was insufficient evidence to move the case forward to trial.
“All told, complainant failed to present sufficient evidence which would convince this Office that a reasonable certainty of conviction may be achieved if this case is filed in court,” the resolution stated, as reported by Politiko.
Lopez had filed the case in April under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262), citing psychological harm and financial abuse. She accused Benitez of manipulative behavior, alleged extramarital affairs, and withholding financial support to control her. Her complaint invoked Section 5 of the law, which penalizes emotional and psychological abuse.
However, prosecutors found the complaint largely based on unverified materials—photos, media clippings, and the testimony of Lopez’s sister. They emphasized that using such evidence to prosecute could set a “dangerous precedent.”
Benitez denied the allegations in May, asserting he had provided substantial financial support to Lopez over two decades. He cited the purchase of properties and vehicles registered in her name and claimed he had covered their family’s expenses.
On July 10, following the dismissal, Benitez issued a statement welcoming the resolution. “I ask that this matter now be laid to rest, and that innocent individuals, especially my children, be given the privacy to move forward away from this controversy,” he said.
The case also stirred public interest due to the inclusion of celebrities. Lopez’s complaint named actress and content creator Ivana Alawi, actress Andrea Del Rosario, and beauty queen Daisy Reyes as allegedly being linked to Benitez. The congressman criticized the public naming of individuals, stressing that such actions violated confidentiality rules.
Alawi, who had previously appeared in photos with Benitez, reiterated in a vlog that she has no involvement with him and is not a “homewrecker.” Benitez likewise explained that the images were from a coincidental meeting in Japan during a business trip.
Before rejoining Congress, Benitez served as mayor of Bacolod City from 2022 to 2025. The complaint’s dismissal marks a significant legal vindication as he continues his political career.