Mendiola is let go as CPA Tinian ports manager

The Commonwealth Ports Authority board decided Friday to announce the position of Tinian ports manager, which is currently held by Joseph T. Mendiola.
Without further discussion and deliberation on the floor during Friday’s board meeting, Mendiola was issued a 45-day notice to vacate the ports manager position.

Mendiola was hired by the board in October 2010 to replace former manager Ike Perez, whose contract was also terminated.

Mendiola’s contract has been on the board’s table since early this year but a decision on the matter was delayed. In contrast, the contracts of both Saipan airport manager Ed Mendiola and Rota airport manager Martin Mendiola have already been renewed.

Mendiola’s last contract stipulated a $50,000 annual salary.

When asked for comments, Mendiola admitted being surprised by the board’s decision. However, he said he fully respects and understands the board action.

“I was surprised because all along I thought I was renewed. But I do respect and understand the board’s decision. I’d like to thank them for the opportunity they have given me to work with CPA for three years,” he said.

Mendiola is expected to get the 45-day notice this week and, according to board members, he can still apply for the position once it is formally announced.

When asked if he will re-apply for the position, Mendiola declined to comment but expressed a willingness to serve the agency again if the board wishes it in the future.

Prior to Friday’s decision, the board deferred taking action on Mendiola’s contract pending a meeting reportedly requested by Gov. Eloy S. Inos. This was specifically mentioned in a previous meeting by board member Benigno Sablan.

Mendiola believes that because it’s an election year, the decision on his contract may have some “political pressure.” “But I really do understand the board,” he added.

Mendiola is reported to be interested in the mayoralty position on Tinian. He told Saipan Tribune he is “seriously considering” to run in the mid-term election. Mendiola is a member of the Republican Party.

For the three years he served as the Tinian ports manager, Mendiola has been instrumental in the military buildup project being coordinated on Tinian where trainings are being conducted.

“I hope what I have done is satisfactory to the mission of CPA,” he said.