Lawmaker: I can date because I am single

CAGAYAN DE ORO first district Representative Jose Benjamin Benaldo reacted on reports of his alleged “dating and night life” printed in some local newspapers.

Benaldo confirmed that he is now officially single after his annulment to his wife was officially granted.

He said he maintains a good relationship with his ex-wife and had always been silent about his private life.

However, he said his detractors are now hitting him “below the belt.”

“I am now officially single and I can date whoever I want with the approval of Glad,” Benaldo said.

Earlier, photos of Benaldo with a woman were printed in local newspapers, criticizing him for his alleged lavish lifestyle and frequent travels abroad.

In his defense, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano said there is nothing wrong in Benaldo’s travel abroad and lavish lifestyle, citing that he can “truly afford it.”

Emano added that Benaldo can legally date anyone he wishes since he is single.

Benaldo’s detractors also alleged that he has done nothing during the start of his term.

But the lawmaker clarified that he is a “working congressman.”

“Let my projects be the evidence of my handwork. That should be put to news instead of my private life,” he said.

Based on records, Benaldo has reportedly provided a total of 82 projects for the city’s first district.

He said his “baby project” is the four-kilometer road at the Calaanan relocation site for survivors of tropical storm Sendong in Barangay Canitoan.

“The road is 10-inches thick, which only proves that there is no corruption involved,” Benaldo said.

Meanwhile, actress Daiana Menezes, who attended the “I love CdeO” pageant in the city over the weekend, defended Benaldo, saying that he is a good congressman and that he works for the development of his district.

Menezes said he was very impressed with Benaldo’s ways, citing that he has already helped many people.