Mayor Albee Benitez of Bacolod City took to social media to set the record straight on the issue involving actress Ivana Alawi.

In a statement on Facebook on Feb. 11, Benitez pointed out that "speculations involving Ms Ivana Alawi are untrue and only serve to put malice into what was clearly a chance encounter."

The mayor also apologized to "Ms Alawi and her family, who have been unfairly dragged into issues concerning my private life."

His full statement:

"I am fully aware of the video footage that has been circulating which unfortunately does not accurately explain why I was in Tokyo. I went there on a business trip as stated in my official travel order.

"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."

On Feb. 10, the politician-producer issued a statement after he was linked to Alawi.

"As for recent personal matters, I kindly request understanding and respect for privacy to shield all innocent parties involved.

"In my private capacity as a film and TV program producer, my professional interaction with various celebrities is inherent to the nature of the business.

"At this moment, my primary focus is on safeguarding the interests of Bacolod City. - Mayor Albee Benitez."

Also on Feb. 10, Ivana denied in a statement that she was in a romantic relationship with Albee.