BENGUET – Memories of the time of service of the late Rep. Nestor Fongwan, Sr. brimmed at the La Trinidad town hall and the Benguet Capitol during the necrological services conducted to remember the province’s “Action Man,” Dec. 27.
Most of the Benguet officials said they have been deeply influenced by the leadership of Fongwan, who passed away on Dec. 18 due to health complications. He was 68.
Many also expressed their condolences to the family of the late lawmaker while municipal officials of the 13 towns of Benguet gave their resolutions of condolences to his family.
“We will continue your legacy and we will not forget what you’ve done,” said Gov. Melchor Diclas.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Juana Banawe said Fongwan, who served as governor for nine years, said the latter was a social welfare champion, who genuinely cared for his constituents.
Board Member Robert Canuto said everyone should learn from the good qualities of the congressman.
“The way he prepared himself from scratch to nothing is what we need to emulate. He made his life in such a way that he could be generous with what he has,” he said.
If there is one thing Tublay Mayor Armando Lauro would remember from Fongwan, it was how he got the attention of the audience to listen to his speeches.
“So, before he spoke, he whipped out his comb and in true blue Fongwan fashion, combed his hair which caused the whole room to roar in laughter,” Lauro said.
“A void has been created with the passing of the late congressman. Let us continue to support and pray for the family, they need it,” said Ifugao Rep. Solomon Chungalao.
Mountain Province Rep. Maximo Dalog, Jr. also lauded Fongwan, saying Benguet has been home to many of the constituents of Mountain Province.
He thanked the congressman for his help as well to his constituents, as many of them are engaged in the vegetable trade, who became successful in their trade in the province.
Nestor “Bobot” Fongwan, Jr. said they have yet to decide who to recommend to seat as Benguet’s caretaker.
“We will talk about it with the family after the burial,” he said.
Kalinga Rep. Allen Jesse Mangaoang said the appointment of legislative caretaker for Benguet would depend on the decision of the family together with the political party.
Fongwan is under the PDP-Laban slate.
Mangaoang added the decision would also require approval of House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano.
Baguio Rep. Marquez Go also attended the necrological service for the beloved public servant who served Benguet for 30 years.
Fongwan’s remains was interred Dec. 28 at Guadayan, Puguis, La Trinidad,
“It was not hard for us to decide on some things because our father already instructed us before he left. There will only be one Nestor Fongwan, Sr.”, the younger Fongwan said. – Ofelia C. Empian
