February 24, 2033, 5:30 PM - Sargeant Esguerra Avenue corner Mother Ignacia Street, Baranggay South Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City - DA Corporate Center (Former ABS-CBN Broadcasting Center)
Rising high above the bustling city, a magnificent new high-rise estate shimmered under the sun's rays. The towering structure served as the prestigious corporate headquarters of the DA Corporation, a vast and diverse conglomerate of businesses that had established a dominant presence across multiple industries.
The land on which the magnificent building now stood was once owned by one of the biggest TV networks in the Philippines, ABS-CBN broadcasting corporation. However, due to unfair and underhanded tactics by the government, they lost their franchise, resulting in job losses and a significant impact on the economy. As a result, they were compelled to sell the property, which was eventually acquired by a young, brilliant business tycoon. His unwavering ambition and drive propelled him to great heights of success, allowing him to transform the property into a center of business not only for the whole country but also for international markets.
The DA Corporation stood as a towering testament to the man's tenacity and unrelenting pursuit of excellence, a magnificent monument of achievement towering over the heart of the bustling metropolis.
Perched in his office at the pinnacle of a newly constructed high-rise luxury building that served as the main headquarters of his corporation, the man savored his iced coffee as he intently studied the reports displayed on the large screen embedded in the wall, all of which were connected to his laptop.
After a while, he let out a sigh and reached for the intercom on the edge of his desk.
"Ms. J, could you please check my schedule from tomorrow until Friday?" the tycoon inquired into the intercom.
"Good afternoon, sir," Ms. J's voice came through the intercom. "Your schedule for the next few days is quite packed. You have multiple meetings, a number of events to participate in, and several client dinners to host. Additionally, you have a site inspection scheduled for a newly acquired location that is set to be converted into an event space. Let me print out the exact schedules and send them over to your office."
The tycoon pauses for a good while then replies, "Sorry to put this onto you, but can cancel and move all of them for after this Friday."
"Sir, I don't think that's wise," Ms. J protested. "You have several important appointments lined up this week, and millions could be lost if you miss any of them."
The tycoon thought for a moment, he replies that it's fine, move what can be moved, and let go of what can't be salvaged. "I can afford to lose a few million."
"It's really nice to be super rich huh?" Ms. J joked in a polite way.
The man laughed and said, "It's not like that" He paused again, gathering his thoughts before continuing, "I just have something I really want to do. You know I wasn't always this wealthy. It's been ten years since that day when I thought I had lost everything, where I lost all hope. But after going through a lot, here I am now, happy and with more money than I can even spend in my lifetime. I just want to take a break and celebrate - celebrate life, the life I almost lost, the life I almost took away from myself years ago."
"Alright, sir," Ms. J replied, "I understand. I'll make sure to take care of the schedules. I will do my best to make the necessary adjustments and inform all parties involved."
"Thank you, Ms. J," the tycoon replied. "I really appreciate it."
The next day, the tycoon arrived at Banwa Island with a few close friends and loved ones. The tycoon and his companions arrived on the island of Banwa through a private helicopter ride from Manila. As they descended onto the island, they were greeted by a breathtaking view of pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forests.
They were escorted to their villa, which was situated on the top of the highest point on the island. From there, they had a breathtaking view of the ocean and the lush greenery surrounding them. The villa was exquisitely designed with luxurious amenities that were carefully chosen to provide maximum comfort.
The group spent their days lounging by the private pool, enjoying the warm sun and the cool ocean breeze. They indulged in delicious food and drinks, prepared by the talented chefs at the resort. They also explored the island, taking in the serene natural beauty and enjoying the various activities available, such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
Each evening, they watched the sunset from the comfort of their villa, sipping champagne and enjoying the peacefulness of the island. They couldn't help but feel rejuvenated and relaxed after their stay on Banwa Island, a true paradise on Earth.
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February 28, 2033, 7:30 PM - Banwa Private Island, Roxas, Palawan, Philippines
As the night fell, the tycoon sauntered along the beach, the soothing sound of waves serenading his steps. In the distance, he saw a figure, one he knew all too well, standing alone, gazing out into the vast ocean. His heart swelled with love and adoration as he approached her.
"Hey, you doing okay?" he asked, his voice laced with affection.
Her face lit up at the sight of him, "I am, now that you're here," she replied, her eyes twinkling with joy.
"Are you enjoying the vacation?" he asked, taking her hand in his and lacing their fingers together.
"It's been a dream come true. Everything has been perfect, especially being here with you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Thank you for being with me all these years, through thick and thin," he said, his tone becoming more serious.
She could sense his change of mood and teased him, "Oh no, you're not getting all sentimental on me, are you?"
He took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving hers, "I realized that you are the missing piece in my life puzzle, and I want to spend the rest of my life making every moment with you as perfect as this one. Will you do me the honor of being my wife?"
As he knelt down on one knee, he produced a small box from his pocket. Inside was the most breathtaking diamond ring, shining like stars in the night sky.
The woman's eyes widened, and tears of joy streamed down her face, "Yes, yes, a million times yes."
As they embraced, the tycoon felt the weight of the world lift off his shoulders. Above them, helicopters flew in the sky, showering them with fragrant rose petals. The night sky came alive with fireworks, their explosion of colors illuminating the couple's surroundings.
Their loved ones approached them, each carrying a bouquet of exotic flowers and bottles of the most expensive champagne and wine. They all joined in the couple's celebration, toasting and cheering long into the night, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
February 25, 2023, 6:30 AM - Intramuros, Manila, PhilippinesThe alarm clock beeped loudly, interrupting Daniel's peaceful sleep. He groaned as he stretched his arms, trying to shake off the sleepiness. He got up and went straight to the shower, letting the cold water wake him up.As he got dressed, he realized he was running out of clothes to wear to work. He needed to do the laundry soon but couldn't afford to have it done professionally. It was just one of the many problems he was facing lately.After finishing preparing, he immediately stepped out of his house and walked towards the main road, bracing himself for the long commute ahead. As he looked around, he noticed that the road was already crowded with people and vehicles, all struggling to make their way through the heavy traffic.He checked his watch and realized that he was already running late. He knew he had to hurry, but the thought of the long and exhausting commute made him feel even more stressed and anxious.The lack
February 25. 2023, 9:30 AM - Intramuros, Manila, Philippines - The Metro Times TV OfficeThe walk from his manager's office back to his desk seemed longer than it used to be. He didn't remember the hallway in the office being this long. Daniel felt overwhelmed and surreal. He wanted to cry but held back his tears because there were other employees around. Before returning to his desk, he walked towards the smoking area and lit a cigarette. He didn't really smoke anymore, but the stress was too much to handle at that moment. He took a deep drag, feeling the nicotine rush through his body. As he exhaled, he felt a sense of calm wash over him, albeit temporarily. After finishing the cigarette, he returned to his desk.As Daniel sat at his desk, he couldn't shake off the feeling of betrayal. His mind was racing with thoughts of all the hard work he had put into the company and how it had all gone unnoticed. He took a deep breath and opened his laptop, ready to write the resignation letter
February 28, 2023, 10:00 AM - Project 6, Quezon City, Philippines - Daniel's apartmentDaniel had sent out several job applications over the last few days and had even gone through a couple of job interviews. However, he hadn't received any job offers yet. He felt his anxiety levels increase with every passing moment.Daniel was sitting in his small apartment feeling a sense of despair. He had spent the past few days cooped up inside, sending out job applications and going through online interviews. He had hoped to land a job soon, but it seemed like no one was interested in hiring him.The situation was made worse when his landlord came knocking at his door, asking for the month's rent. Daniel explained his situation to him, but the landlord was unyielding. He needed the rent money or else he would be forced to evict Daniel.As if that wasn't enough, the electric and water bills arrived, and he realized that he had no money to pay for them. He felt like the world was closing in on hi
March 3, 2023, 3 PM - Project 6, Quezon City, Philippines - Daniel's ApartmentDaniel lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. It had been three days since his breakup with Judy and six days since he had resigned from his job. He felt empty like all his motivation had been drained from him. He couldn't find any reason to get out of bed, let alone apply for jobs.Despite his lack of motivation, Daniel still kept applying for new jobs. He couldn't explain why he was doing it; he just kept aimlessly scrolling on LinkedIn, clicking on job posting after job posting. It was as if he was going through the motions, hoping that something would change, but not believing that it would.Daniel's body was weak, and he hadn't eaten or drunk anything for the past three days. He was dizzy, and his mind felt foggy. The stress, problems, and pressure were overwhelming him. He felt like he was drowning, and there was no one there to save him.As Daniel lay there, he received a notification on his phone. It w
March 3, 2023, 11:30 PM - Project 6, Quezon City, Philippines - Daniel's ApartmentDaniel felt as though he was about to pass out, his body exhausted and his mind weary from the constant battles he had been facing. But as he closed his eyes, a flash of light and a strange sensation passed through his body, and he heard a robotic yet commanding female voice inside his head."Prerequisites for Overcome System Achieved," the voice said."Bounding system to the host.""Bounding successful.""Welcome to the Overcome system! Overcome!"Daniel was bewildered, wondering if he was dreaming or hallucinating. He looked down and saw a semi-translucent panel in front of him, reading "Welcome to the Overcome system! Overcome!".Suddenly, he felt as if something was being bound to him, and he couldn't move his body. He felt an invisible force being connected to him, like an extra limb but at the same time, he can't really explain the feeling of it. The voice spoke again, "Please remain still while
March 4, 2023, 5 AM - Project 6, Quezon City, Philippines - Daniel's Apartment*Ding!*"The first mission is being assigned."Daniel was jolted awake once more due to the sound of the notification that appeared in his mind. Although he has already accepted the existence of the system he is still not used to it and is still trying to adjust to it being with him."Take care of yourself," the system had instructed him.Daniel couldn't believe it. "That's it?" he muttered to himself.The system responded immediately, "Yes, your well-being is the foundation of overcoming everything."Daniel was bewildered. He had expected a more challenging mission, something that would test his skills and intelligence. But as he thought about it, he realized that the system had a point. If he wasn't healthy, he wouldn't be able to tackle more difficult challenges in the future."So, what do I have to do?" he asked the system."You must improve your Physical, Emotional, and Mental well-being in the next se
March 5, 2023, 5 AM - Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Quezon Memorial CircleDaniel slept soundly the previous night and woke up feeling refreshed and energized.*Ding!*"7 Hours of sleep was achieved. The system has recorded your progress," the system announced right after Daniel woke up.Daniel smiled at the already-becoming familiar sound and felt even more motivated to start his day. But he suddenly thought that it might sound strange if he referred to the voice as a "system" in public."Hey, is there a different name I can call you when other people are around? Maybe something I can pretend like an AI assistant from my phone?" Daniel asked the voice.After a brief pause, the voice replied, "You can call me Sampaguita."Daniel chuckled to himself. It was a relief to have a name to use instead of referring to the voice as "system." He got out of bed, ready to start his day with Sampaguita's guidance.He checked his phone and saw that it was only 4:45 AM. He kne
March 5, 2023, 9:30 AM - Mindanao Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines - On the Road to Vertis NorthDaniel sat in the car, scrolling through his phone, and watching some TikTok videos as they made their way to Vertis North. The area where the condominium building was located wasn't really that far from Daniel's old apartment; it was just that there was almost always traffic in these parts (and even most parts of Metro Manila). While watching a video of newborn birds being fed worms, he felt his phone vibrate. Checking the notifications, he saw that it was a reply from Molly."Hi, Daniel! Sorry for the late reply. I just woke up actually. :) Yes, I am free later today. I don't mind hanging out. What do you have in mind for later?" Molly said through chat.Daniel's heart skipped a beat as he read Molly's message. He was about to type in his reply, his phone rang, interrupting his thoughts. It was his mother, so he immediately picked up the call."Hi, Ma," Daniel said, trying to sound casua
April 3, 2023, 9:14 AM - 121 Valero Access Road 3 Salcedo Village, Makati, Philippines - 1900 Antel Corporate Center - Solé Corporate OfficeInside a small conference room in the client's office building, Daniel and the Inklusive team anxiously awaited their turn to present. TVWA, their competitor for this pitch, was currently showcasing their ideas in the main conference room.Glancing at his team, Daniel observed a mix of excitement and anxiety on their faces. Understanding the pressure they felt as part of Inklusive's first pitch, he leaned forward and addressed them in a calm, reassuring tone."Look at you guys," he chuckled, shaking his head. "Why are you all so nervous? Come on, have a little faith in yourselves! We've got this in the bag. We've put in the work, we've got the talent, and we've prepared an interesting campaign proposal. Trust me, we're well-prepared, and I believe in each and every one of you. Let's show them what Inklusive is capable of."His words seemed to eas
March 27, 2023, 11:30 AM - Makati City, PhilippinesAs the Inklusive team rode back to the office in one of their company cars, the tension from the encounter with the head of the competing agency still lingered in the air. The team couldn't help but discuss the arrogance they had witnessed, their voices filled with a mix of frustration and determination."I can't believe how arrogant that guy was," Jewel exclaimed, her voice laced with frustration. "Did you see the way he dismissed our ideas and belittled our capabilities? It was completely uncalled for."Daniel, who was sitting beside Jewel, sighed and said, "Don't let them get to you. If there is one thing I've learned in my time in advertising is that if you let intimidation blow your fuse, you lose. Learn to control your anger, you will encounter worse people than that in the industry, I can tell you that much. Besides, they did have grounds for their confidence, they are from TVWA, a bigwig in the advertising field, but let's no
March 27, 2023, 8:14 AM - Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Orean Place CS 103 - Inklusive Creatives and Advertising's Temporary Office"Alright," Daniel addressed the Inkusive team, his voice filled with excitement and determination, "Good morning, everyone. Today is the first client brief the company will face, fosho it ain't the last, nevertheless, let's give it our all to secure this one."The team nodded in agreement, also excited for their, hopefully, first client"Okay," Daniel continued, "So Lily, Jewel, Dwight, JP, and Jhunel come with me, the rest can stay here and continue working on our social media. We'll update you on the progress later."The designated team members gathered their belongings and followed Daniel out of the office, excited and nervous for their first client brief with Inklusive. As they made their way to the client's location, the excitement in the air was palpable. This was a crucial opportunity for Inkusive to showcase their talents and
March 26, 2023, 9:27 AM - Senate Village Phase 2, Baranggay 173, Caloocan City, Philipines - Abelardo ResidenceAs his parents heard the commotion outside, they rushed out to welcome him back home. "Daniel!" his mom exclaimed as she embraced him."Ma, Pa, mano po," Daniel greeted them."Oh, Anak, your mom mentioned you were taking us somewhere?" his dad inquired."Yes, Pa, it's a surprise. Follow me there, and you can drive this car," Daniel replied, gesturing to the new car parked in front of their house. His parents were surprised to see it there, and they also noticed Mia standing next to the car."Is this your car, Anak? And who is this? Is she your new girlfriend? Why didn't you introduce her earlier?" his mom inquired.Hearing the comment Mia of course blushed but was too shy to retort. Daniel shook his head at the antics of his mother. "Ma, no po." He then turned to Mia and said, "Sorry bout that. Please don't mind my mom."Mia shook her head in response, indicating she doesn't
March 26, 2023, 5:41 AM - Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Penthouse 001When Daniel woke up the next day, he was immediately jolted awake by Sampaguita's robotic voice, which, at this moment, was music to Daniel's ears.*Ding*"Congratulations host," Sampaguita announced, "Minor mission: Overcome being unknown has been completed.The host is hereby rewarded with 100 overcome points and a 4-bedroom house and lot property located in Mira Nila Homes, Pasong Tamo, Quezon City, Philippines.The title of the property will be sent right away to the host's current abode."Daniel smiled as he saw the house that was included in this time's reward. It was something he can use for something he had been wanting to do for a long time.So Daniel immediately got up, went through his morning daily routine of working out and making breakfast, ate then freshened up to prepare to go somewhere.But before he left, he picked up his phone and dialed an all-familiar number to him."Hey, ma.
March 25, 2023, 11:23 AM - Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Orean Place CS 103 - Inklusive Creatives and Advertising's Temporary OfficeAfter retrieving his motorcycle, Daniel drove straight back to the condominium and parked it in his designated spot before making his way inside.As he entered the building, a cameraman caught sight of him and signaled to his partner, who was holding a microphone with an 'INQ' logo. The two turned towards Daniel, drawing the attention of the others nearby.Realizing that they were all there to interview him, Daniel was taken aback. There were seven pairs of reporter-cameramen waiting for him, including three from TV networks and four from newspapers."Are you Mr. Daniel Abelardo? Hi! I'm Gale from The Inquirer, can we have an interview with you?" asked the woman holding the "INQ" microphone."Sir, I'm Phoebe from Rappler, can we ask a few questions?" another lady interjected.The reporters all spoke at once, overwhelming Daniel with
March 25, 2023, 5:38 AM - Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Penthouse 001Yesterday, Inklusive not only uploaded the remaining videos but also collaborated with content creators who share their advocacy. In return, the company promoted the creators' videos about their campaign on social media, which helped increase their campaign's reach.However, the downside is that Daniel's projections show that even with the current boost, they might only get a maximum of 3.5 million organic reach. This news weighed heavily on him, causing him to worry about failing their mission this time."This is frustrating," Daniel sighed. "But on the bright side, we were able to raise awareness for the drivers' situation, right?"So after his morning usual routine, Daniel went down to the office. He tasked the team to relax for now and start to shift their focus to the next goal at hand. Preparing to attend client briefs with various companies to create pitches for paid ad campaigns.Daniel a
March 24, 2023, 5:38 AM - Vertis North, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines - Penthouse 001The next day, Daniel woke up to the sound of his alarm and immediately reached for his phone. As he scrolled through his notifications, he felt his heart skip a beat. The company's social media accounts were buzzing with activity.He had been closely monitoring the first video they posted last night, which they had released on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok, and the company website. When he called it a day, the video only had a few reactions and comments from team members, acquaintances, and volunteers of the foundation. But now, his eyes widened as he saw that the Facebook post alone had over 123,000 reactions and more than 1000 shares.Excitedly, Daniel began reading some of the positive comments out loud, "This video made me realize the struggles of our drivers, thank you for raising awareness" and "The imported modernization is so expensive! The government should find better alternative
March 22, 2023, 1:23 PM - 596 Monumento Rotonda, Caloocan, Philippines - Monumento CircleOn the day of the shoot, Daniel and his team arrived at the circle and worked closely with Berto, who coordinated the logistics for the shoot with the foundation and the drivers. As they arrived on site, Daniel called out to Berto, waving his hand in greeting."Yo Berto!" he exclaimed.Berto turned around and smiled at the group. "You guys all set up?" he asked."Yeah, we're ready to go," Daniel replied.Following Berto's lead, the team captured footage of the food distribution, the stranded passengers, and the people getting into the cars provided by Inklusive for free rides. The long line of passengers waiting for a ride seemed relieved that they would finally be able to reach their destinations. Some of them took photos, while others expressed their gratitude for being able to get a ride without having to pay a single centavo. It was heartwarming to see the community coming together in support