Dominique Lopez Benitez, commonly known as Nikki, is a prominent Filipino philanthropist and the estranged wife of Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez, the current mayor of Bacolod City and an incoming congressman. She is widely recognized for her humanitarian work, particularly through the Nikki Cares Foundation Inc., which she leads.
In recent developments, Nikki Benitez has filed a legal complaint against her husband, accusing him of economic and psychological abuse under Republic Act No. 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act. She alleges that the mayor’s extramarital affairs, including a rumored relationship with actress Ivana Alawi, caused her significant distress. The complaint also references his petition for annulment filed in 2024, which she interprets as an admission of his illicit relationship .
Mayor Albee Benitez has denied these allegations, describing them as “baseless and retaliatory.” His legal counsel asserts that the complaint is a response to his initiation of annulment proceedings and that the properties and assets in question were funded by him but registered under Nikki’s name.
Early Life and Background
Age and Birth Information
Dominique Lopez Benitez was born on October 8, 1972, making her 52 years old as of 2025.
Parents and Family
Nikki is the daughter of Dr. Jose Conrado Benitez, a former Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Human Settlements and former President of the Philippines Women’s University, and Betty Bantug Benitez, a former Executive Director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. She has a sibling, Jose Francisco B. Benitez, Ph.D., who is also a public servant.
Hometown and Early Life
While specific details about her early life and hometown are limited, Nikki’s upbringing in a family deeply involved in public service likely influenced her path toward community engagement and philanthropy.
Education
Information regarding Nikki’s formal education is not publicly available. However, her active involvement in community service and leadership suggests a strong foundation in both academic and practical knowledge, enabling her to effectively lead initiatives that address public health and welfare.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Nikki is married to Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez, a prominent businessman and politician who currently serves as the Mayor of Bacolod City. The couple has two children:
Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez: Born on October 8, 1994, Javi is an actor and television host under ABS-CBN’s Star Magic. He has appeared in various television shows and is also known for his involvement in his family’s business ventures.
Bettina Marie L. Benitez: Information about Bettina is limited, but she is known to be the couple’s second child.
Controversy
In May 2025, Nikki Benitez filed a legal complaint against her husband, Mayor Albee Benitez, accusing him of economic and psychological abuse under Republic Act No. 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act. The complaint alleges that the mayor’s extramarital affairs caused her significant distress. Mayor Benitez has denied these allegations, describing them as “baseless and retaliatory.” He asserts that the complaint was filed shortly after he initiated annulment proceedings in 2024.
In 2017, Nikki founded the Nikki Cares Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free medical services to indigent patients in Negros Occidental. The foundation’s flagship program is the annual “Libre nga Operasyon” surgical mission, which offers free surgeries to underserved communities.
The Nikki Cares Foundation collaborates with various partners, including the Makati Medical Center Foundation, local hospitals, and government agencies, to conduct these missions. Since its inception, the foundation has assisted over 3,000 patients across the province, offering surgeries for conditions such as hernias, gallstones, ovarian cysts, and cleft lip and palate.
Nikki’s hands-on approach during these missions, from pre-screening to post-operative care, exemplifies her commitment to the welfare of the communities she serves. Her leadership has garnered recognition from various sectors, including the Victorias City government, which honored the Nikki Cares Foundation for its exemplary contributions to public health.
Other Initiatives
Beyond surgical missions, Nikki Cares Foundation Inc. is involved in other community support activities, such as providing medical consultations, distributing free eyeglasses, and offering dental services. These initiatives aim to address the broader healthcare needs of marginalized populations in Negros Occidental.
Net Worth
Detailed information regarding Nikki Benitez’s net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, her philanthropic endeavors and involvement in various community projects suggest a significant personal and family commitment to public service, often supported by donations and partnerships rather than personal wealth.
Conclusion
Dominique Lopez Benitez’s life and work embody a profound dedication to community service and public welfare. Through the Nikki Cares Foundation Inc., she has touched the lives of thousands, providing essential medical services to those in need. Her personal experiences and family background have undoubtedly shaped her compassionate approach to philanthropy, making her a respected figure in Negros Occidental and beyond.
FAQs
What is the Nikki Cares Foundation Inc.?
It is a non-profit organization founded by Dominique Lopez Benitez, dedicated to providing free medical services to indigent patients in Negros Occidental.
How many patients has the Nikki Cares Foundation assisted?
As of 2024, the foundation has assisted over 3,000 patients through its surgical missions and other healthcare initiatives.
What types of surgeries does the foundation provide?
The foundation offers surgeries for conditions such as hernias, gallstones, ovarian cysts, cleft lip and palate, and other similar ailments.
Who are the partners of the Nikki Cares Foundation?
The foundation collaborates with organizations like the Makati Medical Center Foundation, local hospitals, and government agencies to conduct its missions.
What is Dominique Lopez Benitez’s role in the foundation?
She serves as the president and is actively involved in all aspects of the foundation’s operations, from planning to execution.
Has Dominique Lopez Benitez received any awards for her work?
Yes, she has been recognized by various local governments, including the Victorias City government, for her exemplary contributions to public health.
What is the mission of the Nikki Cares Foundation?
The mission is to provide free medical services to underserved communities in Negros Occidental, improving access to healthcare for indigent populations.
