Benaldo, with "the consent of [his] partner," issued a statement Thursday to address the "issues that have recently come out."
"Like any couple, Daiana and I encounter problems. We try to resolve them privately. I have apologized to her and she has accepted," the congressman said.
He added: "On behalf of Daiana's actions on social media (Twitter, Instagram), we seek the understanding of everyone regarding her posts on her advocacies seeking help and support."
The lawmaker is referring to Menezes' controversial posts on the social networking sites early this week. The 25-year-old shared a series of images pertaining to violence against women, including ones showing the words "No to rape," "Real Men Don't use Violence," and "There is no excuse for abuse."
Another photo on Menezes' Instagram page showed an arm bleeding from cuts and wounds.
On Tuesday, a source disclosed to ABS-CBN News that Menezes, through a representative, has already raised her "situation" to a women's rights group.
In his statement, Benaldo said that he "[believes] that any woman, any foreigner (woman) who might be facing a situation worse than ours must find an avenue for the redress of her grievances in our country."
The congressman, however, did not give further details about the mentioned "situation" with his partner.
Benaldo likewise confirmed ABS-CBN News' earlier report that he and Menezes were married in December 2012.
"Daiana and I got married civilly in Las Vegas. Since then, we have been preparing for the big religious ceremony as we previously announced," he said.
Maintaining that they are still a couple, Benaldo said he and Menezes were able "settled our differences today."
"We are together out of love. We fought because of love. She has forgiven me because she truly loves me. I am truly blessed," he said.
He added: "We thank our friends & relatives for their patience and support. We thank everyone for respecting our privacy."
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
