105 The Bid and the New Threats
December 13th, 2024.
At New Clark City. Michael arrived at the city, parking his RAM TRX 500 in the designated parking space. There, he was greeted by one of the developers of the New Clark City, Mr. Hernandez. Mr. Hernandez, a man in his early fifties with a firm handshake and a keen eye, wore a simple yet elegant suit that seemed fitting for the warm climate of the Philippines. His demeanor was professional, yet there was a warmth to his greeting that put Michael at ease immediately.
"Mr. Reyes, welcome to New Clark City," Mr. Hernandez said. "We've been looking forward to your presentation. SolaraTech has made quite an impression with your proposal."
"Thank you, Mr. Hernandez," Michael replied, matching his professionalism. "It's an honor to be here and have the opportunity to discuss how SolaraTech can contribute to the city's development. We're excited about the potential partnership."
"Well to do so, you'll have to meet the committee and bid successfully," Mr. Hernandez continued as they started walking towards the meeting building. "How about the other parties?" Michael asked as they made their way into the building. "The Solar Dynamics Corporation? Oh, they arrived early and are waiting for their turn to present," Mr. Hernandez replied without missing a beat. "They're one of your main competitors for this project, as you know. But from what we've seen, SolaraTech's proposal is very promising. It's going to be an interesting comparison."
As they entered the building, Mr. Hernandez led Michael to a small conference room where he could prepare before the presentation. "You'll have some time to set up and go over your notes. You'll be presenting to a panel that includes key stakeholders in the New Clark City project, including government representatives, urban planners, and environmental consultants. If you need anything, let me know." N/nêw n0vel chap/ers are published o/n n0v/e/(lb)i(n.)co/m
"Thank you, Mr. Hernandez," Michael said as he set down his materials and began to prepare. Mr. Hernandez gave him a nod of encouragement before leaving the room and closing the door behind him.
Time passed quickly, and soon Mr. Hernandez returned to escort Michael to the main conference room. But along the way, he saw a familiar figure.
"Mr. Benico?" Michael said, pointing at him.
After hearing his proposal, the committee exchanged glances and nodded in satisfaction. "Your company has been making names in Europe right?" "That's true, and all the more reason to choose SolaraTech because we have credibility and accreditations from European companies that are eager to partner up with us." "Well...Mr. Reyes, we must admit, the proposal is good, and it's pretty convincing to say the least. Thank you for that and please wait for our call within two to three days to discuss the outcome of the bid," one of the committee members concluded, extending a hand towards Michael for a handshake.
"Thank you for the opportunity to present today. I look forward to hearing from you soon," Michael responded, shaking hands with the committee member and then with the rest of the panel. ***
Three days later, at the PSE Tower, Michael simply watched his phone, the anticipation building with each passing moment. He tried to keep his focus on the work at hand, reviewing project reports and responding to emails, but his thoughts inevitably drifted back to the bid for New Clark City. Finally, late in the afternoon, the phone rang with Mr. Hernandez's number on the display. Michael took a deep breath before answering, trying to steady his voice. "Mr. Hernandez, good afternoon," he greeted.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Reyes. I hope I'm not calling at a bad time," Mr. Hernandez began, his voice betraying none of the news he was about to deliver.
"Not at all, I've been looking forward to your call," Michael replied, his heart racing.
"Well then, I won't keep you in suspense. I'm pleased to inform you that SolaraTech Corporation has been selected as the renewable energy partner for New Clark City. The committee was particularly impressed with your comprehensive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Congratulations, Mr. Reyes."
For a moment, Michael was speechless, the weight of the news sinking in. Then, a rush of relief and excitement washed over him. "Thank you, Mr. Hernandez. This is fantastic news! We are thrilled at the opportunity to contribute to New Clark City's development and to work closely with your team."
Mr. Hernandez chuckled, "We're equally excited, Mr. Reyes." "This is worth celebrating!"
***
Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, the world's elites are starting to notice the SolaraTech rise in the chessboard. Two of them to be precise.