House speaker: Avoid speculations on Benaldo's 'suicide' try

MANILA, Philippines - House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. on Friday asked the public to respect the privacy of the family of Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Jose "Benjamin "Benjo" Benaldo who allegedly tried to take his own life by shooting himself in the chest.

"Right now the incident continues to be thoroughly investigated and I hope that we all respect the privacy of the family at this time and avoid any other speculations," Belmonte said in a statement.

When news about Benaldo's attempted suicide broke out, there were speculations that he was depressed because of his failed reelection bid.

On Thursday evening, Benaldo was rushed by staff members to the New Era hospital, after being found bleeding in his office.

Related story: Benaldo may face charges for 'suicide' at House

"He had sustained a gun shot wound to the chest, which now indicate he attempted to take his own life," said Belmonte.

Benaldo has since been in stable condition and is currently at the St. Luke's Medical Center.

In a radio interview on Friday morning, House Deputy Speaker Miro Quimbo said Benaldo, has been going though a "painful experience."

"Hindi naman maipagkakaila na [meron siyang pinagdadaanan]. Siyempre hindi siya nanalo sa re-election niya, tingin ko napakamahapdi para sa kahit sinong lingkod-bayan. Hindi baleng hindi ka nanalo but if you are not re-elected, that's a very painful experience," said Quimbo, who is a Marikina City representative.

Belmonte said he has ordered a full report of the incident from the House sergeant-at-arms, who is also coordinating with the Quezon City Police Department.

"Benjo has not disclosed his reasons for what happened and may do so at the right time," Belmonte said.

"What is important is that he is alive and in recovery which we all are grateful for," he added.

Benaldo was previously involved in a controversy with his Brazillian model wife Daiana Menezes, who earlier posted disturbing pictures of injuries in her arm and made cryptic comments on violence against women.