Chapter 134: It's Decided, Transportation It Is

Michael's highly competent secretary, sat across from him, a stack of documents and her tablet in front of her. The room was quiet, save for the soft hum of the air conditioning.

"Alright, Michael," Juliet began with a professional tone. "Starting a transportation company in the Philippines, especially one that involves modern electric jeeps, requires navigating through a series of regulatory, financial, and operational hurdles. Let's break it down systematically."

"Firstly, the legal aspect," she continued, swiping through her tablet to bring up her notes. "You'll need to register the business with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for incorporation. This will involve preparing and filing the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, and obtaining a pre-registered Tax Identification Number (TIN)."

"Once the company is legally established," Juliet moved on, "the next step is obtaining the necessary permits and licenses. This includes a business permit from the city or municipality where the company will operate, a Department of Transportation (DOTr) accreditation, and a franchise from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The LTFRB franchise is particularly crucial, as it grants legal authority to operate public transport services within specified routes."

"Financially," she noted, "you need to consider the initial capital investment. This covers the cost of purchasing or leasing electric jeepneys, establishing operational facilities like depots or terminals, and setting up maintenance and administrative services.

It's important to have a detailed business plan that outlines projected costs, revenue streams, and return on investment analysis to attract potential investors or secure loans if necessary. But since you have a lot of money in your bank, it won't be necessary."

"Operationally, the company must adhere to the LTFRB's standards for modern public utility vehicles (PUVs). These standards specify requirements for vehicle specifications, including size, seating capacity, environmental compliance, particularly for electric vehicles, and safety features.

Compliance with these standards will be assessed during the franchise application process and regular inspections thereafter."

"Human resources is another critical aspect," Juliet added. "You'll need to recruit qualified drivers, mechanics, and administrative staff. Drivers must undergo training and accreditation as required by the DOTr, focusing on safety and customer service to ensure they are fit to operate the modern jeeps."

"Moreover," she explained, "establishing a reliable and customer-friendly operation is vital. This involves implementing a fare collection system, probably through an automated fare collection system (AFCS) like electronic cards or mobile payment, route planning, scheduling, and establishing customer service protocols to handle inquiries and complaints."

"And let's not forget about marketing and public relations," Juliet pointed out. "The success of the transportation company will heavily rely on its public image and the trust of the community it serves. A strong marketing strategy should promote the environmental benefits of electric jeeps, the reliability of the service, and community engagement initiatives."

"Wait we have a brand of our own?" Juliet asked.

"Yes..."

"Then that will be another matter because not only we are starting a transportation company but also an automobile company. Because one of the requirements of the LTFRB is that the jeepneys must be acquired from a certified manufacturer that meets the national standards for public utility vehicles," Juliet explained, highlighting the significance of this requirement.

"Right," Michael acknowledged. "In that case prepare that as well. I'm sure this is a lot of work, can you handle it?"

"It's my job as your secretary to handle whatever comes our way, sir," Juliet responded confidently. "I'll make sure to coordinate with the right experts and consultants to ensure we meet all legal, operational, and manufacturing standards. We might need to expand our team, though, to cover all the bases efficiently."

"Do whatever you need," Michael said.

"We should also consider intellectual property rights, sir. If we're designing our electric jeepneys, we need to protect our designs, technology, and brand. I'll add that to the action plan: securing patents, trademarks, and any other relevant IP protections," Juliet proposed.

Michael appreciated her foresight. "Good point, Juliet."

"I think that's all, Mr. Reyes. Do you have anything in mind that you would like to add or any specific direction you want this project to take?" Juliet asked, ready to note down any additional instructions or preferences Michael might have.

"No, that would be all, thank you, Juliet," Michael "You've outlined a comprehensive plan, and I trust your judgment on these matters."

"Thank you, Mr. Reyes. I will take my leave now and carry out my duties," Juliet bowed her head before leaving Michael's office.

Michael was alone in his office and started to think of something.

"I think it's time to visit the Virtual World again."