Chapter 106: The Endorsement
Sentinel Systems HQ – Executive Office.
Matthew Borja sat at his desk, his fingers hovering over the sleek holographic keyboard as he prepared to make one of the most calculated moves of his career. It wasn't a business decision—not directly—but it was just as important.
He was about to publicly endorse Vice President Regina Velasco for the presidency.
The meeting with her had gone as well as he had hoped. She was clear, pragmatic, and most importantly, not corrupt. She wasn't just making vague promises; she had a plan. A plan that aligned with his vision for the Philippines—a country that embraced innovation, technology, and clean governance.
And now, it was time to let the world know.
Angel stood beside him, her tablet in hand, monitoring real-time social media trends. The Philippine political scene was volatile—every move, every word from high-profile figures could tip the scales of the election.
"Are you sure about this?" she asked, glancing at him. "Once we go live, there's no going back. You're essentially throwing your entire influence behind her."
Matthew exhaled, his eyes locked on the post he had just typed.
"I'm sure," he said. "It's time people knew where I stand."
With that, he pressed "Post."
Matthew Borja – Official Social Media Statement
"The Philippines is at a turning point. Our future depends on leadership that prioritizes innovation, transparency, and progress. I believe in a government that invests in the next generation, supports business and technology, and ensures that taxpayer money is used to benefit the people—not line the pockets of corrupt officials.
After careful consideration, I am endorsing Vice President Regina Velasco for President.
She understands the importance of a strong digital economy, the necessity of research and development, and the critical role of technology in our nation's growth. I trust her vision, and I stand with her in building a better, more prosperous Philippines.
The future is ours to create. Let's make the right choice. #VelascoForPresident #ProgressForThePhilippines"
Angel barely had time to blink before the social media metrics exploded.
"Matthew, this is blowing up," she said, scrolling through the overwhelming flood of likes, shares, and comments pouring in.
Matthew leaned back in his chair, watching the impact unfold in real-time.
Within minutes, major news outlets had picked up the announcement. Headlines flashed across the screens:
"Billionaire Tech Mogul Matthew Borja Endorses Regina Velasco for President!"
"Sentinel Systems CEO Makes Bold Political Move—Backs Velasco's Campaign"
"Borja's Endorsement Could Shift the Election Landscape"
The comment section under his post was a war zone of opinions.
Some people praised his decision:
"Finally, someone who understands what the country needs!"
"This is a massive win for Velasco—Borja doesn't make decisions lightly."
"If the smartest businessman in the country is backing her, I trust his judgment."
Others criticized his involvement in politics:
"He should just stick to running his company. Why interfere in elections?"
"This is exactly why billionaires shouldn't have political influence."
"Does this mean Sentinel Systems will start controlling the government?"
Matthew expected this. He wasn't naïve—not everyone would be happy with his endorsement. But that didn't matter. He wasn't trying to please everyone—he was shaping the future.
Regina Velasco's Response.
Angel's tablet pinged with an incoming notification.
"Velasco's campaign just released an official statement," she said, reading it aloud.
"I am honored and grateful for Mr. Matthew Borja's trust and support. His endorsement reflects our shared vision for a forward-thinking, innovation-driven Philippines. Together, we will ensure that progress benefits every Filipino, not just the privileged few. Thank you, Matthew—let's build a brighter future."
Matthew smirked. Smart response.
Short, powerful, and reinforcing their alliance without overplaying it.
Angel nodded approvingly. "Her team knows how to handle the media. This will solidify her campaign's credibility with the business sector."
Matthew turned to her. "Schedule a strategy meeting. I want to know how we can maximize the momentum from this endorsement."
As expected, Velasco's opponents responded quickly.
Senator Emilio Vargas, the other leading candidate, wasted no time in attacking the endorsement. He held an emergency press conference, standing in front of a backdrop of waving flags.
"The presidency is not for sale. We will not allow billionaires to dictate the future of this country. The people, not the elite, will decide the next leader of the Philippines!"
Matthew watched the broadcast on the office's large holo-screen, his expression unreadable.
Angel rolled her eyes. "That was predictable."
Matthew smirked. "He's worried."
The fact that Vargas had to immediately counter the endorsement meant he saw it as a real threat.
Angel chuckled. "And he should be."
The effects of Matthew's endorsement went beyond social media.
Corporate leaders, technology experts, and economic analysts began discussing the impact of a Velasco presidency on business and innovation.
Some business moguls quietly shifted their campaign donations toward Velasco.
Tech startups and research firms expressed their support, seeing a potential boom in innovation under her leadership.
Even international investors started watching closely, reassessing their long-term plans for the country.
Matthew sat in his office, taking it all in.
"This isn't just an election," he muttered. "This is a paradigm shift."
Angel nodded. "And you just gave it the push it needed."
As night fell, Matthew checked his phone one last time.
The endorsement had dominated the news cycle all day. It was being debated on talk shows, news segments, and political panels.
He knew this was just the beginning.
But one thing was clear:
Matthew Borja had just changed the course of the Philippine election.
The impact of Matthew's endorsement continued to ripple across the country. By the next morning, every major news outlet, from traditional newspapers to digital media giants, had made it their top headline. Political analysts dissected its implications, business leaders whispered about the shift in corporate support, and social media continued to explode with reactions.
At Sentinel Systems HQ, Angel monitored the latest reports, scrolling through live analytics.
"Matthew, we're trending across all platforms. Your endorsement isn't just a story—it's the defining moment of this election cycle."
Matthew sipped his coffee, unfazed. "Good. That's exactly what we wanted."
Angel smirked. "You know, Vargas' camp is trying to discredit you, saying you're only supporting Velasco because you want to control the government."
Matthew chuckled. "Typical. Let them try."
The media storm wasn't dying down. If anything, it was only beginning.
And Matthew was ready to take full advantage of it.
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