Daiana Menezes belies abuse claim: 'We are just like a normal couple'

MANILA, Philippines - Brazilian model Daiana Menezes apologized in a television show aired on Sunday for causing the public to misinterpret her social media posts on domestic and sexual abuse.

“If I made no sense at all, my apologies but I really have my emotions,” Menezes said told The Buzz, adding that she was never a victim of domestic abuse.

She said her posts were only meant to seek the attention of her husband, outgoing Cagayan de Oro Rep. Benjamin Benaldo, whom the 25-year-old Menezes said has been to busy to spend time with her.

"In a way, I was actually seeking [his attention]. He was so busy. Sometimes we don’t really get to see each other. I want to make it clear. Some people think that we want attention from the public," she said.

Last week, Menezes posted graphics on her social media accounts that say "No to rape" and "Real men don't use violence" as well as photos of her arm with bruises, leading netizens to specu caused much stir online and even caught the attention of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman.

Related story: Daiana a victim of violence? DSWD offers help

"Lord, please I can't take this anymore, I'm all by myself here, prayers are much appreciated. But, sa totoo lang. Thank you po, Lord, I'm still alive," Menezes posted on her Instagram account.

Screencap of Daiana Menezes' June 9, 2013 post on Instagram.

In another post, she said that she is aware of the posts she has written, apologizing for not giving details on the matter.

"I wish I had a CCTV or if I knew, record would do, but 'ang sakit'; it's a physical, sexual and emotional pain that can't be explained. Besides there are two sides of the coin and I know the other side will fight for defense," Menezes posted.

Screencap of another June 9, 2013 post by Daiana Menezes' on Instagram.

In the interview, however, Menezes defended her husband and said that he has been greatly affected by the issue.

"Sa kanya masama ang effect eh ... We are just like a normal couple. I regret having brought him into a situation that may [make him look like an abusive husband]," she said.

Benaldo, who appeared in the show with his wife, explained that "something just happened" in their home that made Menezes feel neglected.

"I was busy campaigning and I would always tell her that I need sleep," Benaldo said.

Last Thursday, Benaldo issued a statement on the outrage over Menezes' posts, saying the couple has resolved the issues "privately" and that the social media posts were just part of her "advocacy" against abuses happening in Brazil.

"Like any couple, Daiana and I encounter problems. We try to resolve them privately. I have apologized to her and she has accepted. 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.

Menezes, however, told an online news company last Thursday that she supported the advocacy because of something  that she "experienced."

"“It has been my advocacy until I experienced it, the more I have been supporting the advocacy (sic)," she said.

Benaldo and Menezes tied the knot through a civil ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada last December. Benaldo said they are preparing for to take their religious vows soon.

Instagram user Catherine Booker who watched the television interview, meanwhile, commented on Menezes' post supposedly referring to an abusive relationship.

"Watching the Buzz right now, Diana, you look scared and lying. And your husband keeps staring at you like he was saying 'don't say the truth.' Don't be scared!" Booker said.

Another user Dene Toretto also said, "Watching The Buzz right now. Everything does not add up." - Camille Diola