LIEUTENANT Gov. Dennis Mendiola, Homeland Security official Joey Dela Cruz, and Lt. Justin Paul Mizutani of the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services are facing charges of misconduct in public office for allegedly misusing public funds to rent vehicles, and for transporting one to Rota illegally.
On Thursday, Superior Court Clerk Patrick Diaz issued penal summons for the three officials to appear before Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja on Sept. 15 at 9 a.m. Failure to appear may result in arrest warrants.
Mendiola faces three counts of misconduct in public office and one count of theft. Mizutani is charged with one count each of misconduct and theft. Dela Cruz faces one count of misconduct.
According to court documents, Mendiola, while serving as Homeland Security and Emergency Management special assistant in 2022, authorized the transport of a private 2003 Toyota Tacoma from Saipan to Rota on a chartered vessel, costing the government $3,135.81. He also allegedly ordered the transport of a rental 2019 Toyota Tacoma — owned by Pacific Corporation/SPN Car Rental — without consent, resulting in a $3,658.66 loss.
Between April and December 2022, Mendiola allegedly rented five vehicles from Pacific Corporation without budget approval or payment, leaving the government with a $61,290 debt.
Mizutani, temporarily assigned to HSEM’s special operations group, is accused of helping transport the 2019 Tacoma to Rota without authorization. Both Mendiola and Mizutani are charged with theft for allegedly taking the rental vehicle, valued at $20,000.
Dela Cruz, while acting as HSEM special assistant, allegedly rented four vehicles between October 2022 and April 2023 without budget approval or payment, resulting in a $20,415 debt.
The charges were filed by the Attorney General’s Public Integrity Task Force, led by Assistant Attorney General Olga Kelley, in coordination with the Department of Public Safety and the Office of the Public Auditor. The task force investigates white-collar crimes, government corruption, and financial misconduct.
Gov. David M. Apatang issued on Thursday the following statement:
“Today Lt. Governor Mendiola informed me about a complaint filed against him, alleging misconduct in public office.
“Our Administration recognizes and respects the rule of law, and we place our full faith and trust in the independent judicial adjudication process.
“While this matter is before the courts, it is inappropriate and premature to comment on the complaint. Due process must be afforded.
“Rest assured that the priorities and work of this Administration will not be interrupted in order to provide essential public services.
“Lt. Governor Mendiola will be releasing a statement from his office soon.”
