Chapter 303: Frigate Acquired!

September 30th, 2028. Michael visited the Malacañang Palace located in Manila as he had an appointment with the new President. He didn't bring his new Lamborghini because it wouldn't suit the formal occasion. Instead, he arrived in his usual transportation, the Toyota Alphard.

As Michael stepped out of the car, presidential security guards flanked him, guiding him toward the entrance.

He walked through the grand halls of the palace, guided by a protocol officer, and moments later, he arrived at the waiting room. Michael took a seat, feeling the weight of the documents he carried—a comprehensive proposal for the President.

After a few minutes, the President's Chief of Staff appeared at the door. "Mr. Reyes, the President is ready to see you now," he said with a polite smile.

Michael stood up, straightened his suit, and followed Mr. Alvarez down a short hallway to the President's office. The room was impressive, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The new President, a dignified woman in her early fifties, stood up from behind her desk to greet him.

"Good morning, Mr. Reyes," the President said, extending her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Good morning, Madam President Salcedo," Michael replied, shaking her hand firmly. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me."

"Please, have a seat," President Salcedo said, gesturing to the chairs in front of her desk. Michael sat down, placing the documents on the table in front of him.

"Yes, Madam President," Michael began, carefully opening the folder. "I've been working on a potential collaboration with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Navy. Specifically, we're looking at licensing the Baden-Württemberg-class frigate for local manufacturing."

The President leaned forward slightly, her interest piqued. "Go on."

Michael detailed the potential benefits of the frigate, explaining its advanced radar systems, missile capabilities, and overall versatility. He emphasized the strategic importance of bolstering the Philippine Navy in light of current geopolitical tensions.

"The initial cost is substantial," Michael admitted, "but the long-term benefits in terms of national security and regional stability are invaluable. Additionally, ThyssenKrupp is open to negotiating the terms, given our existing relationships and mutual interests."

The President listened intently, occasionally nodding as she reviewed the documents Michael had provided. "This is indeed a substantial investment," she said thoughtfully. "But given the current climate, it might be necessary. Strengthening our naval forces has been a priority for my administration."

"I am so glad that you said that, Madam President. I was told by your predecessor that you will focus on modernizing our military forces, especially our navy," Michael continued. "This partnership with ThyssenKrupp could be a key step in achieving that goal."

"Better than expected," Michael replied, smiling. "President Salcedo is fully on board. She's meeting with the Defense and Finance Ministers to allocate the necessary budget and resources."

"That's fantastic news," Bridget said, visibly relieved. "We're ready to move forward with the next steps. I've been in touch with ThyssenKrupp, and they're prepared to discuss the details of the agreement."

"Great," Michael said. "Let's set up a call with them. We need to finalize the timeline and ensure all parties are aligned."

Juliet nodded, already making notes. "I'll coordinate the call and prepare the agenda. We should have everything ready for review by the end of the day."

"Perfect," Michael said. "Let's make this happen."

In the conference room, Michael, Juliet, and Bridget joined the video call with representatives from ThyssenKrupp. Dr. Hans Müller appeared on the screen, looking pleased.

"Mr. Reyes, it's good to see you again," Dr. Müller said. "I understand you've had a productive meeting with President Salcedo."

"Yes, indeed," Michael replied. "We have the government's support to move forward with the project. We're here to finalize the details and establish a clear timeline."

"Excellent," Dr. Müller said. "We've reviewed your initial proposal and are prepared to make some adjustments as discussed. For you, we are giving you a twenty percent discount."

The call proceeded smoothly, with both parties discussing the technical specifications, timelines, and financial aspects of the collaboration. By the end of the call, they had a comprehensive plan in place.

"Okay, we are going to just sign this electronically and we will proceed with the next steps," Dr. Müller said, smiling.

Michael nodded, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thank you, Dr. Müller. This is a significant milestone for us. We appreciate your cooperation and the discount."

"Likewise, Mr. Reyes," Dr. Müller replied. "We're looking forward to a successful collaboration. Let's make this project a benchmark for future endeavors between our countries."

As the call concluded, Michael turned to Juliet and Bridget, and he smiled at them. "Okay, frigate acquired!"