Michael stood from his seat as the commissioners began packing up their papers, feeling a mix of relief and caution. The hearing had gone as expected, but this was just the first step in what would likely be a long, drawn-out process. Luis, his legal counsel, gave him a slight nod of approval as they collected their documents.
"Well handled," Luis said in a low voice as they walked toward the exit. "You kept your answers concise, and they seemed satisfied. But don't let your guard down yet."
Michael gave a brief nod. "I know. This is far from over." Your next read awaits at m v|l-e'-novelhall.net
As they stepped out of the hearing room, they were immediately met by a wave of flashing cameras and microphones. Reporters shouted over each other, hoping to get a soundbite from Michael about the proceedings. Security quickly stepped in to create a path through the crowd.
"Mr. Reyes, how do you feel about today's hearing?"
"Do you think Reyes Corporation will face further scrutiny?"
Michael remained composed, his face neutral as he walked briskly with Juliet on his side. She stepped forward slightly, drawing the attention away from Michael, and addressed the reporters with calm authority.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Juliet began, her voice cutting through the noise. "Mr. Reyes has no further comments on the hearing at this time. However, I can assure you that Reyes Corporation is fully cooperating with the Philippine Competition Commission, and we are confident that today's session reaffirmed our commitment to fair business practices."
A reporter immediately raised his voice, trying to push for more. "Does Reyes Corporation anticipate further investigations into its other sectors, particularly in pharmaceuticals?"
Juliet didn't flinch. "Reyes Corporation operates across multiple industries, and in each sector, we comply with all regulatory standards. Today's hearing focused on the acquisitions in our energy and technology sectors. Any future inquiries will be handled with the same level of transparency."
Another reporter interjected, "What about the Senate hearing? Can we expect a different approach from Mr. Reyes given the political nature of the Senate?"
Juliet gave a brief, measured smile. "Mr. Reyes will address the Senate hearing with the same professionalism and dedication to transparency that you've seen today. We are confident that the facts will speak for themselves."
Michael looked at her, appreciating her foresight. "And that message is?"
"That Reyes Corporation is not just a market leader, but a company that's pushing innovation and keeping consumer interests at the forefront," Juliet responded confidently. "We need to remind everyone that what we're doing is for the betterment of the Filipino people—more jobs, better technology, and affordable access to essential services."
Michael leaned back in his seat, processing everything. The pressure was building, but he had been through tough situations before. He would get through this, as long as his team stayed focused.
As the car pulled up in front of Golden Topper, Reyes Corporation's headquarters in BGC, Michael and Juliet stepped out, their expressions calm but minds still racing. The towering building gleamed in the late afternoon light, its modern glass façade reflecting the bustling energy of the business district. This was where they would regroup, analyze the day's events, and plan their next steps.
Inside the sleek, polished lobby, the familiar hum of the corporate environment greeted them. Executives and employees moved with purpose, and a few glanced curiously at Michael and Juliet, aware of the high-stakes day their CEO had just faced. The pair made their way swiftly to the private elevator that led directly to the executive floor.
Once inside the elevator, Michael let out another deep breath, still processing everything. Juliet, ever focused, pulled out her phone to send a quick message to Luis, asking for any follow-up notes and updates on the Senate hearing preparation.
"We need to make sure we're ready for any surprises," she said, her tone practical but laced with urgency. "The media's going to spin everything from today, and the Senate will be more politically charged."
Michael nodded as the elevator doors slid open to reveal the top floor of the building, his personal office space, and conference rooms for the senior management team.
"I'm aware," he replied.
As they stepped into the executive suite, Bridget was already there, waiting with several folders in hand. She greeted them with a nod.
"I've already briefed the media team about today's hearing. We're drafting a press release, but I wanted to wait for your final input before we push it live."
Michael took a seat at the large glass desk that dominated his office, glancing at the folders Bridget had laid out. "Good. Thank you baby."