Headed by Sen. Francisco Q. Cruz R-Tinian, the members of the panel spoke favorably about Mendiola’s nomination during the public hearing in the Senate chamber.
Mendiola is the son of Rota’s new mayor and is a long-time legislative staffer.
Senate Floor Leader Pete P. Reyes, R-Saipan, said he has seen Mendiola worked and heard good things about him.
Sen. Jovita M. Taimanao, Ind.-Rota, described Mendiola as bright, hard working and trustworthy.
“I’m very happy you accepted the position,” Taimanao told Mendiola while reminding him that MPLT is being watched from on how its funds are spent.
Senate Vice President Jude U. Hofschneider, R-Tinian, congratulated Mendiola, but warned him that “we are in sort of a depression,” and people are looking at the MPLT funds.
Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota, is also pleased to hear good comments about Mendiola from some members of the community.
He told Mendiola, however, that the Senate wants to make sure that MPLT’s indigenous funds are protected for future generations.
Mendiola currently works with the Legislative Bureau.
His nomination was also supported by newly appointed Department of Public Lands Secretary Oscar M. Babauta.
Mendiola, for his part, vowed to ensure “that prudent investment are made,” adding that these should include “reinvesting back into the community.”
He said he he will work closely with the MPLT board, its staff, the administration, the Legislature and the community to ensure that the investment policies of the MPLT are in the best interest of its stakeholders.
The lt. governor’s legal counsel, Teresa Kim, attended the public hearing on behalf of the governor who, she said, was in Washington, D.C.
She said she has known Mendiola for years and has worked with him.
She believes Mendiola is qualified to serve on the MPLT board.
Fitial, in his letter to the Senate, said he is confident that Mendiola “will conscientiously devote his time and efforts in the best interest of all our people.”
