Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez is setting the record straight about rumors linking him to actress Ivana Alawi. 

In a Facebook post, the mayor apologized to Alawi after Ogie Diaz revealed on YouTube that the two were spotted in Japan.

A video of Alawi and Benitez allegedly at the airport has also sparked rumors about the two. 

In his Facebook post, the mayor said he is fully aware of the video footage that has been circulating which he said does not accurately explain why he was in Tokyo. 

"I went there on a business trip as stated in my official travel order," Benitez said.

“Speculations involving Ms. Ivana Alawi are untrue and only serve to put malice into what was clearly a chance encounter. I apologize to Ms. Alawi and her family who have been unfairly dragged into issues concerning my private life. There is no truth to any and all the rumors spreading and I am setting the record straight to avoid further hurt and damage to them." 

“Maraming salamat po.”

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