In July 1993, Fariñas was preventively suspended as governor for 60 days by President Fidel V. Ramos due to him facing charges of oppression and abuse of authority in court among others.

The suspension was given at the recommendation of executive secretary Teofisto Guingona and presidential legal counsel Antonio Carpio.

Governor Fariñas tackled issues in the fields of education, health, agriculture, sports, tourism and peace and order by directing to create the Department of Public Safety which responded to medical emergencies, erect a new hospital building at the Gov.

Roque Ablan Hospital, construct the Centennial Arena and Olympic size swimming pool, establish the Capitol Day care Center, restore the Rizal Amusement Park and implement infrastructure projects in various parts of the province.

After completing his three consecutive terms as governor of the province, Fariñas won a seat to serve Ilocos Norte as First District congressman in the 1998 local polls.

[3] Fariñas was married to the commercial model turned actress Maria Teresa L. Gerodias Carlson from Zambales and together, they have six children including Ria Christina the former representative of 1st District of the Ilocos Norte.