BXBX NOVEL Chapter 278: That's Him
"I get your point, Mrs. Turner, but I don\'t see any reason why we should focus on this man. There\'s more stuff that we need to handle, like the sudden incursion of the Chinese fighter jet into the Philippines\' territory."
"As of now, Mr. Reyes is more of a threat than China."
"I\'d say he is a friend," the President countered. "If he was our enemy, why would he even sell his aerospace enterprise to Raytheon, huh? It means Mr. Reyes saw benefit from partnering with the United States."
"Oh, if that\'s the case, Mr. President. Then why would he do things such as this?" Turner placed a document on the desk.
The President picked up the document, skimming through the pages. It detailed the investigation that the Central Intelligence Agency initiated against Michael Reyes, specifically the disappearance of two CIA agents who were in the Philippines to investigate him closer.
According to the document, the agents had been captured by the paramilitary force of Reyes Corporation and were presumed dead.
The President\'s expression hardened as he read. "This is serious, Turner. If this is true, it changes everything."
The President nodded, deep in thought. "You have provided concrete evidence. What do you suggest?"
"Well, I think we should pay Mr. Reyes a visit. Extract information out from him with any means necessary."
"You mean to kidnap, Mr. Reyes?"
"Yes," Turner confirmed firmly. "We can\'t let him continue unchecked. He\'s too much of a wildcard."
The President leaned back in his chair, considering the proposal. "This is a delicate situation. If we make a wrong move, it could escalate tensions, not just with Reyes, but with the Philippines as a whole."
Turner nodded. "I understand, Mr. President. But we have to act. Reyes has already shown he\'s willing to take extreme measures. We need to be proactive."
The President sighed. "Alright, but we need to handle this discreetly. No mistakes."
Turner smiled, a determined look in her eyes. "I\'ll take care of it."
***
Back in the Philippines, the grand opening of the newly refurbished Hanjin Subic Shipyard was being celebrated. Banners and flags decorated the shipyard, and a stage was set up for speeches. Local officials, business leaders, and the media were all present to witness the event. Michael stood on the stage, ready to address the crowd.
"Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for being here today," Michael began. "Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for this historic shipyard. I am proud to announce the formation of Reyes Maritime Industries. Our goal is to build and maintain the finest ships for the Philippine Navy, Coast Guard, and commercial sector."
The crowd applauded, and Michael continued. "This shipyard will not only strengthen our national security but also boost the local economy. We are creating jobs and providing opportunities for growth and development in the region. This is just the beginning, and I am excited for what the future holds."
As the applause died down, Michael cut the ribbon, officially opening the Reyes Maritime Industries shipyard. The celebration continued with tours of the facilities and demonstrations of the new equipment.
Juliet approached Michael with a smile. "Congratulations, Mr. Reyes. This is a huge milestone."
"Thank you, Juliet. I couldn\'t have done it without your hard work and dedication," Michael replied.
Bridget approached Michael.
"Of course, you also have to thank us, your primary investors," Bridget said.
"Bridget, you and Mrs. Estolas are profiting from every company that I established in different sectors," Michael proudly said. "I believe it\'s already in the billion and you Mrs. Estolas, it also made you part of the top 10 billionaires in the Philippines. What was the specific rank?"
"Top 6," Antoinette replied with a smile.
Michael nodded. "It\'s a team effort, and I\'m grateful for all your support."
As they chatted, Juliet stepped forward again, this time with a more serious expression. She leaned in and whispered to Michael.
"The mayor of Subic wants to talk to you. He says it\'s urgent."
Michael\'s brow furrowed. "Alright, where is he?"
"He\'s waiting in the VIP tent," Juliet replied.
Michael excused himself from the group and made his way to the VIP tent. The mayor, a middle-aged man with a stern look, was pacing back and forth. He stopped when he saw Michael.
"Mr. Reyes, thank you for taking the time," the mayor said, extending his hand.
"Of course, Mayor. What seems to be the problem?" Michael asked, shaking his hand.
"There\'s no problem, Mr. Reyes. I just wanted to extend my warmest appreciation for reviving this shipyard," the mayor said. "This project has already made a significant impact on our local economy. The community is very grateful."
"Ahh," Michael exhaled softly. "I thought there was a problem because your message seemed urgent," he said with a relieved smile.
The mayor chuckled. "I apologize for that. It was more of a priority than a problem. I also wanted to personally thank you for your cooperation with the local government and the swift approval of all necessary permits and licenses. Your team has been extremely efficient."
"Thank you, Mayor. We couldn\'t have done it without the support of your office. The quick processing of permits and licenses was crucial to keeping our project on schedule," Michael replied. "We aim to be a positive force in the community and contribute to its growth."
The mayor nodded. "You\'ve done a remarkable job so far. If there\'s anything else we can assist you with, don\'t hesitate to reach out."
"Will do, Mayor. Thank you for your continued support," Michael said, shaking the mayor\'s hand again.
As Michael left the VIP tent, microphones and cameras were trusted onto Michael as the journalists from big media companies bombarded him with questions.
"Mr. Reyes!" one reporter called out. "What are your plans for future projects at Reyes Maritime Industries?"
As Michael answered questions from different journalists, two CIA operatives watched from a distance. They blended into the crowd, their eyes never leaving Michael.
"So that\'s him?" CIA agent 1 asked.
"That\'s him," CIA agent 2 confirmed.