As a true advocate of democracy, Bishop Fortich helped organize Namfrel in 1983 and served as its National Co-Chairman until his retirement from the diocese in 1989. In retirement, he remained an active supporter of Namfrel and of our advocacy for clean, honest, and peaceful elections.
In 2000, Namfrel National Chairman Jose Concepcion Jr. and National Co-Chairman Bishop Fortich received on behalf of the organization the Edsa People Power Freedom Award conferred by the Edsa People Power Commission to Namfrel for "unflinching dedication to the holding of free, fair and honest elections" and for being "a model of civic action and bravery."
In 2001 Namfrel received the Chino Roces Freedom Award for its "sustained initiative taken in behalf of the nation’s citizens to guard the sancity of the democratic vote." Namfrel achieved worldwide recognition when it was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1986. For his work in the peace process during the Aquino administration, the Bishop once again was honored with another nomination in 1989.