He also ran for governor in 2004 but lost to incumbent Governor Lazaro. After losing the 2004 gubernatorial elections, Fernandez decided to return to politics by running for congressman at the first district of Laguna. He also co-authored 13 House Bills and Resolutions.
Prior to his election in the Congress, he was formerly a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Vice Governor of Laguna under the governorship of Teresita Lazaro. As a member of the, Fernandez sponsored and authored 19 House measures. Fernandez served on numerous committees as a member of the Philippine:.
