Chapter 278: That's Him

"That is very astonishing, Mr. President," Turner said. "But let's look at the larger picture here. The reason why I showed this to you is because of the unprecedented development the Reyes Corporation had. It started with solar panels and now to the defense industry, specifically the shipbuilding industry. What's next?

Is he going to start a company that makes tanks or aircraft?"

"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."

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.