Sal Fortuno Jr rebuts critics questioning his competence

By Paulo DS. Papa

Salvio Patrick "Sal" Fortuno Jr., of PDP Laban and Team One CamSur, on Saturday, Feb. 26, answered his critics who said he lacks experience and knowledge and is too young to run as vice governor of the province.

Fortuno, who attended the distribution of educational assistance in the Provincial Capitol Convention Center in Pili told beneficiaries that his father, ex-Rep. Salvio “Sal” Fortuno Sr., and his mother, Camarines Sur 5th District Rep. Jocelyn Fortuno are his mentors.

He said his father became a provincial board member for two terms, vice governor for three terms and as congressman for four terms. He added that his parents already proved that they are good public servants whose brand of service he called "Serbisyong Tatak Fortuno".

I learned from my parents how to treat people right. I also learned from them how to listen to people's ideas and how to respond rapidly with compassion and sincerity, he said.

He admitted that it will be a big challenge for him to preside over the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) that is mandated to pass ordinances, approve municipal budgets and to manage the board members with conflicting ideas and interests.

The SP during the administration of Vice Governor Imelda Papin faced controversies. It is perceived to be a rubber stamp of the Villafuertes. However, with Papin running against Luigi Villafurte, the younger brother of Gov. Migz Villafuerte and son of Rep. LRay Villafuerte, Papin is now openly criticizing the provincial administration.

Aside from Papin, ex-Congressman Rolando “Nonoy” Andaya is vying for governor of Camarines Sur.