Complaint Against Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez Dismissed
MANILA, Philippines — The complaint filed against Bacolod Representative Albee Benitez under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 has been officially dismissed by the Makati City Prosecutor’s Office. This decision came after a thorough review found insufficient evidence to move forward with the case.
Assistant City Prosecutor Mikhail Maverick Tumacder ruled that Benitez’s wife, Dominique Lopez, who filed the complaint, failed to present enough proof to justify a formal court case. Lopez alleged that Benitez’s actions caused her mental anguish, citing infidelity as the cause. However, the prosecutor determined there was no reasonable certainty of conviction if the matter proceeded to trial.
Benitez Welcomes Decision, Calls Allegations Baseless
In response, Benitez expressed his acceptance of the dismissal, emphasizing that the accusations were “baseless and malicious.” He had remained silent throughout the legal process out of respect for his family and faith in the justice system.
“I welcome the decision of the Makati City Prosecutor’s Office dismissing, for lack of merit, the complaint filed against me under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act,” Benitez said in a statement.
He added, “This resolution confirms what I have maintained from the beginning—that the accusations were baseless and malicious.” He also respectfully requested privacy for his family, especially his children, so they can move forward away from the controversy.
Legal Review Finds No Basis for Charges
Benitez further clarified that after a detailed legal examination, the prosecutor found no grounds to charge him with economic abuse or psychological violence. The allegations lacked sufficient evidence and did not satisfy the legal criteria for criminal prosecution.
“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.
Local sources noted that this dismissal underscores the importance of evidence when pursuing legal action under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act. The case highlights the challenges in substantiating claims in sensitive family disputes.
For more news and updates on Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez, visit Filipinokami.com.