Chapter 104 Preparing for the Bid

Chapter 104 Preparing for the Bid

December 12th, 2024.

As Michael's plane touched down at Manila International Airport, he quickly made his way out, nodding and offering brief thanks to the crew. Moving briskly through the arrival area, his eyes scanned the crowd until they landed on a familiar figure. His mother stood there, holding up a placard that simply read, "Welcome back." Despite his global business success, this personal touch felt grounding.

Seeing his mother after such a long time, Michael couldn't help but feel a wave of relief and comfort. The busy, bustling environment of the airport faded into the background as he approached her. His mother's presence brought a smile to his face.

"Mom," he greeted, opening his arms for a hug, which she eagerly returned. The embrace was warm and comforting, a stark contrast to the formal handshakes and polite nods he'd grown accustomed to in his business dealings.

"You look well, Michael. Busy, but well," Myra commented, eyeing him with a mix of pride and concern typical of a parent observing their child after a long absence.

"Yeah, it's been non-stop, but I'm managing," Michael replied with a tired voice yet with still a tinge of satisfaction in it. "I missed this, though. I missed home."

Myra nodded, understandingly. "Let's get your bags and head home. You must be tired, and you have a big day ahead..." "Ah...yeah I told you about that," Michael said chuckling. Myra rented a van for their convenience and went home to their place in Quezon City.

A day later, in the PSE Exchange Tower. And in his personal office, he saw Antoneitte Estolas already sitting on the sofa, waiting for him. "Good morning, Mrs. Estolas. Thank you for waiting. I just caught up in the traffic on the way here. Damn, why is it that every morning, traffic is worse than the day before?" Michael said as he set down his briefcase and took a seat across from Antoneitte.

Antoneitte chuckled a sound of understanding and shared frustration. "Welcome back to the Philippines. "So, can I have a look at your presentation for the upcoming bid?"

Michael nodded and opened his laptop, quickly navigating to the presentation file. As the slides appeared on the screen, he walked Antoneitte through each point, explaining the technical specifications, the financial projections, and the long-term benefits of SolaraTech's solar energy solutions for New Clark City.

Antoneitte listened attentively, occasionally nodding or asking for clarification on certain points. When Michael finished, she leaned back, taking a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking.

"Michael, your presentation is comprehensive and well-structured. You've covered all the critical areas, but let me offer some advice on how to really win this bid," Antoneitte began, her tone serious but encouraging. "Firstly, focus on the local impact. Emphasize how SolaraTech's project will benefit the local community directly—through job creation, skills training, and support for local suppliers. Make it clear that SolaraTech is committed to being a partner in the community's development, not just a contractor passing through."

She paused, ensuring Michael was absorbing her advice before continuing. "Secondly, anticipate their concerns. The committee will likely be wary about costs, implementation timelines, and the reliability of new technology. Prepare clear, concise answers to these potential questions. Use examples from your projects in Europe to demonstrate your track record of success and reliability."

"Lastly, appeal to their vision for New Clark City," Antoneitte added. "Align SolaraTech's goals with the city's ambition to be a green, sustainable, and technologically advanced urban center. Show them how your solar energy solutions are not just about providing power but are a crucial step towards realizing their vision for the city's future."

"Thank you, Mrs. Estolas," Michael said. "Okay, tomorrow is the bid, I have to prepare for it."