I'm The King of Business & Technology in the Modern World

Sentinel Systems HQ – Private Conference Room

The anticipation in the air was palpable. Matthew Borja, dressed in a tailored dark suit, sat at the head of the long, sleek conference table inside Sentinel Systems' executive meeting room. The atmosphere was professional, yet intimate.

Across from him, the Vice President of the Philippines, Regina Velasco, had just arrived. She was dressed in a crisp white blazer, exuding confidence and grace as she walked into the room, her staff trailing behind her.

Angel had already made all the necessary arrangements—this was going to be a private discussion, free from media attention or political interference.

As soon as she took her seat, Matthew extended a hand.

"Madam Vice President," he said with a polite nod. "It's an honor to finally meet you."

Regina Velasco smiled but didn't take his hand right away. Instead, she placed her tablet on the table, folded her hands, and looked him straight in the eye.

"There's no need for introductions, Mr. Borja," she said. "I already know exactly who you are."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"You are Matthew Borja, founder of Sentinel Systems, the most valuable company in the country. Your current net worth sits at approximately $80 billion, and in the next five years, your company is projected to surpass the country's GDP growth rate. You have single-handedly disrupted multiple industries, making you the most powerful figure in Philippine technology—and, some might argue, in its economic future."

A smirk played at Matthew's lips. Sharp. Prepared. Direct. He liked that.

"Well," he said, leaning back in his chair, "I appreciate the compliment, Madam Vice President. Though I imagine a lawyer like yourself wouldn't waste time on flattery."

Regina chuckled. "You're right—I don't. But I do believe in understanding my allies before I sit down with them."

Matthew nodded. "Then let's get straight to it."

Matthew steepled his fingers, his expression turning serious.

"I called this meeting because I have a concern," he began. "And it's a concern that every business leader and taxpayer in this country should have."

Regina listened intently.

"My company—and by extension, myself—will be paying hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes to this government in the coming years," he stated. "And I want to know where that money is going."

Regina's expression remained calm, but her gaze sharpened.

"I want to ensure that my taxes aren't being wasted through corruption," Matthew continued. "If I am funding this country's economy—whether through business, employment, or taxes—I want to know that the leader in charge of it isn't pocketing it for personal gain."

Regina nodded, exhaling slowly. "I expected you to say that."

Matthew tilted his head. "And what's your answer?"

Regina leaned forward, her voice steady but firm.

"Mr. Borja, if there's one thing you should know about me, it's that I have spent my entire career fighting against corruption and political greed. I have seen government funds misused, taxpayer money stolen, and businesses like yours exploited by those who think power gives them entitlement to wealth."

She met his gaze without hesitation.

"I am running for President of the Philippines not because I want power," she said, "but because I want to put a stop to that cycle."

Matthew studied her, searching for any sign of deception. He found none.

"How do I know you're telling the truth?" he asked.

Regina smiled. "Because I wouldn't be sitting here with you if I wasn't," she answered. "You are a man of intelligence, Mr. Borja. If I were lying, I doubt you'd waste your time listening to me."

Matthew smirked. Fair point.

He leaned forward slightly, placing his hands flat on the table.

"Then let's talk business," he said. "I want a President who understands how critical innovation is to a country's growth. I want a leader who will invest in technology, education, and infrastructure without getting caught up in bureaucratic nonsense."

Regina nodded. "That's exactly my platform. I want to increase funding for research and development, make STEM education more accessible, and bring in investments that foster economic independence—not ones that benefit a handful of elites."

Matthew exhaled, then made his decision.

"Alright," he said. "I'll back you."

Regina arched an eyebrow. "What kind of backing are we talking about?"

Matthew smiled. "The kind that wins elections."

He turned to Angel, who had been quietly taking notes. "Draft a financial support plan. I want to allocate a portion of Sentinel Systems' political budget to fund campaign efforts."

Angel nodded, already pulling up documents. "Understood."

Matthew looked back at Regina. "This isn't just money. I'll make sure you have the resources to strengthen your digital presence, mobilize campaign teams, and spread your message effectively."

Regina exhaled, visibly relieved. "That's… more than I expected."

Matthew smirked. "I don't do half-measures, Madam Vice President."

Regina chuckled. "I can see that."

As the meeting drew to a close, Matthew extended his hand again.

"Then let's make this official," he said.

This time, Regina took his hand without hesitation, shaking it firmly.

"Let's build a better country together, Mr. Borja," she said.

Matthew smirked. "Let's win first."

Regina laughed. "Fair enough."

Angel cleared her throat. "I'll coordinate with the VP's campaign team to work out the details. Expect a media narrative to shift in your favor soon."

Regina smiled. "And I'll make sure my administration delivers on the promises we're making today."

Matthew nodded. This was a strategic alliance, not just a political endorsement.

As Regina stood to leave, she turned back one last time. "You know, most businessmen wouldn't get involved in politics at this level."

Matthew chuckled. "Most businessmen don't plan twenty years ahead."

Regina smirked. "Then I guess we're both playing the long game."

With that, she exited the room.

As soon as the door closed, Angel turned to Matthew. "That was bold."

Matthew smiled, a sharp glint in his eyes.

"Angel," he said. "We just bet on the future of the Philippines."

And for the first time in a long time, he felt confident in his decision.