‘I Feel Utterly Betrayed!’ Nikki Lopez Names Ivana Alawi as Albee Benitez’s Mistress in Explosive Legal Complaint

In a bombshell revelation that has sent shockwaves through both the political and entertainment worlds, Dominique “Nikki” Lopez, wife of Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, has filed a criminal complaint accusing her husband of marital infidelity and psychological abuse, naming actress and social media star Ivana Alawi as his alleged mistress.

This revelation, detailed in a document now circulating on social media and various news platforms, is part of a larger case Lopez has filed under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (Republic Act 9262). The law is designed to protect women and children from physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse — even within marriages.

The case is quickly becoming one of the most high-profile and controversial personal and legal battles in recent memory, involving one of the country’s wealthiest political figures and one of its most followed celebrities.

The Heart of the Allegation

According to the complaint filed by Nikki Lopez, the couple’s 20-year marriage was shattered by Mayor Albee Benitez’s repeated acts of betrayal, including the alleged fathering of two illegitimate children and a current extramarital relationship with Ivana Alawi.

Lopez stated in the legal document:

“It was only when I received the Petition for Declaration of Nullity of Marriage filed by Respondent and after reading the admission of Respondent of having fathered two (2) illegitimate children, and his implied admissions of his current illicit relationship with Ivana Alawi, that I was able to confirm his marital infidelity.”

She went on to say, “I felt utterly betrayed by the Respondent and was devastated beyond compare after finally discovering and confirming the truth in Respondent’s lies.”

RA 9262: A Powerful Legal Weapon

Lopez’s decision to file a case under Republic Act 9262 significantly raises the stakes. While infidelity alone is not a criminal offense under Philippine law, it can serve as the basis for psychological violence under RA 9262 if the betrayal causes emotional or mental suffering, especially within a marriage.

Lopez’s complaint states:

“The revelation of my husband’s affair is likely to cause mental or emotional anguish and distress… This has deeply affected me and our family, and I believe this constitutes a violation of my rights as a woman and a wife.”

Legal experts believe that if Lopez can prove the emotional impact of the affair, it could result in criminal penalties against Mayor Benitez, including fines, restraining orders, and even imprisonment.

The Ivana Alawi Factor

Perhaps the most unexpected and talked-about aspect of the case is the mention of Ivana Alawi, one of the most followed celebrities in the Philippines. Alawi, whose real name is Mariam Al-Alawi, has built an empire through social media, television, and endorsements, amassing over 16 million YouTube subscribers and millions of fans across the globe.

While Ivana has kept her personal life tightly guarded, her name being associated with a political figure in this context has taken the internet by storm.

So far, Ivana Alawi has not issued any statement addressing the accusation. Her silence has only fueled speculation, with online users split between defending her and demanding answers.

On social media, hashtags such as #IvanaAlawi, #BenitezScandal, and #VAWC trended nationwide within hours of the complaint going public.

A High-Profile Marriage Unraveling

Nikki and Albee Benitez have long been regarded as a political power couple. Albee, a former lawmaker and now mayor of Bacolod City, also chairs Brightlight Productions and holds extensive business interests in telecommunications and entertainment. Nikki, a member of the influential Lopez clan, has mostly stayed out of the spotlight — until now.

Behind the scenes, however, their relationship may have been crumbling for years. Sources close to the family claim Nikki had suspected infidelity for some time but lacked solid proof. The tipping point came when Albee filed for annulment — a move that reportedly contained self-incriminating details.

The filing reportedly acknowledged the existence of two children born outside the marriage and hinted at an ongoing relationship with a “known public figure,” which Nikki later identified as Ivana Alawi.

Political and Public Fallout

The implications of the scandal extend far beyond the Benitez household. As mayor of one of the Philippines’ key cities, Albee Benitez faces the possibility of reputational damage, not to mention legal ramifications if found guilty of violating RA 9262.

Critics argue that public officials should be held to a higher standard of accountability, especially when allegations involve the misuse of personal power or influence in ways that harm others.

Meanwhile, Ivana Alawi’s team is likely facing mounting pressure to respond. Her public image — built on authenticity, family values, and humility — could suffer if the accusations gain traction or are substantiated in court.

Social Media Reacts

The online public has been vocally divided. While some rushed to defend Ivana, citing the lack of direct proof or her silence as signs of innocence, others harshly criticized her involvement — whether real or perceived.

One viral post read:

“Nikki suffered in silence for years while Albee lived a double life. If Ivana knew, she should have walked away. No woman deserves to be betrayed like that.”

Others urged caution and due process:

“Let’s not convict Ivana in the court of public opinion. There’s always more to the story.”

A Nation Watching

As of this writing, no public responses have been made by Mayor Benitez or Ivana Alawi. Legal teams for both parties are presumed to be reviewing the case, and it’s unclear whether any countercharges or statements will follow.

For Nikki Lopez, however, the public acknowledgment of her pain and betrayal appears to be just the beginning of her legal fight — and perhaps, her path to healing.

In a country where celebrity, power, and politics often collide, this unfolding scandal is more than a personal matter. It’s a story about loyalty, accountability, and the emotional cost of betrayal.

The public — and the press — will be watching closely as the next chapter unfolds.