Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 134: It's Decided, Transportation It Is

Michael's highly competent secretary, sat across from him, a stack of documents and her tablet in front of her. The room was quiet, save for the soft hum of the air conditioning.

"Alright, Michael," Juliet began with a professional tone. "Starting a transportation company in the Philippines, especially one that involves modern electric jeeps, requires navigating through a series of regulatory, financial, and operational hurdles. Let's break it down systematically."

"Firstly, the legal aspect," she continued, swiping through her tablet to bring up her notes. "You'll need to register the business with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for incorporation. This will involve preparing and filing the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, and obtaining a pre-registered Tax Identification Number (TIN)."

"Once the company is legally established," Juliet moved on, "the next step is obtaining the necessary permits and licenses. This includes a business permit from the city or municipality where the company will operate, a Department of Transportation (DOTr) accreditation, and a franchise from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The LTFRB franchise is particularly crucial, as it grants legal authority to operate public transport services within specified routes."

"Financially," she noted, "you need to consider the initial capital investment. This covers the cost of purchasing or leasing electric jeepneys, establishing operational facilities like depots or terminals, and setting up maintenance and administrative services.

It's important to have a detailed business plan that outlines projected costs, revenue streams, and return on investment analysis to attract potential investors or secure loans if necessary. But since you have a lot of money in your bank, it won't be necessary."

"Operationally, the company must adhere to the LTFRB's standards for modern public utility vehicles (PUVs). These standards specify requirements for vehicle specifications, including size, seating capacity, environmental compliance, particularly for electric vehicles, and safety features.

Compliance with these standards will be assessed during the franchise application process and regular inspections thereafter."

"Human resources is another critical aspect," Juliet added. "You'll need to recruit qualified drivers, mechanics, and administrative staff. Drivers must undergo training and accreditation as required by the DOTr, focusing on safety and customer service to ensure they are fit to operate the modern jeeps."

"Moreover," she explained, "establishing a reliable and customer-friendly operation is vital. This involves implementing a fare collection system, probably through an automated fare collection system (AFCS) like electronic cards or mobile payment, route planning, scheduling, and establishing customer service protocols to handle inquiries and complaints."

"And let's not forget about marketing and public relations," Juliet pointed out. "The success of the transportation company will heavily rely on its public image and the trust of the community it serves. A strong marketing strategy should promote the environmental benefits of electric jeeps, the reliability of the service, and community engagement initiatives."

"Finally," Juliet concluded, "ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements, such as regular vehicle inspections, renewing permits and licenses, and filing financial reports, will be essential to maintain the franchise and operate legally."

Michael listened intently, absorbing the comprehensive overview Juliet provided.

"Thank you for the effort of telling all that to me clearly and concisely," Michael said.

"I didn't expect that you sir will start a transportation company as your next enterprise," Juliet noted.

"It was supposed to be pharmaceutical but I figured how about doing something that benefits the society the most? Especially our commuters. The phase-out of traditional jeepneys will definitely cause some issues, particularly in the transportation section, where commuters will have a hard time finding a ride because the supply of jeepneys will drastically decrease.

And since there'd be a lot of demand than the supply, a fare hike is inevitable. Therefore we should provide some relief. I want to build a company that puts the public first. It's the image that is important. And it only costs less than starting a pharmaceutical company."

"In that case, sir, I will draft a business plan for our transportation company. If you don't mind me asking, do you have a name for the company yet?" Juliet asked, her pen poised above her tablet, ready to jot down more details.

Michael pondered for a moment, the gears in his mind turning.

"How about something more personal? Reyes Transportation Co?"

Juliet nodded thoughtfully, typing the name into her document. "Reyes Transportation Co. has a nice ring to it, sir. It's personal yet professional, and it establishes a clear connection to you as the founder. I'll make sure to check for trademark availability for that as well."

"Perfect," Michael agreed. "Now, let's discuss the timeline. The phase-out of the jeepney is at the end of January 2026. I'd want it ready before that date."

"Any brands of modern jeeps you have in mind, Mr. Reyes? Like should we partner up with automobile companies?"

Michael shook his head. "No, we already have a jeepney and I want it to be our flagship model."

"Wait we have a brand of our own?" Juliet asked.

"Yes…"

"Then that will be another matter because not only we are starting a transportation company but also an automobile company. Because one of the requirements of the LTFRB is that the jeepneys must be acquired from a certified manufacturer that meets the national standards for public utility vehicles," Juliet explained, highlighting the significance of this requirement.

"Right," Michael acknowledged. "In that case prepare that as well. I'm sure this is a lot of work, can you handle it?"

"It's my job as your secretary to handle whatever comes our way, sir," Juliet responded confidently. "I'll make sure to coordinate with the right experts and consultants to ensure we meet all legal, operational, and manufacturing standards. We might need to expand our team, though, to cover all the bases efficiently."

"Do whatever you need," Michael said.

"We should also consider intellectual property rights, sir. If we're designing our electric jeepneys, we need to protect our designs, technology, and brand. I'll add that to the action plan: securing patents, trademarks, and any other relevant IP protections," Juliet proposed.

Michael appreciated her foresight. "Good point, Juliet."

"I think that's all, Mr. Reyes. Do you have anything in mind that you would like to add or any specific direction you want this project to take?" Juliet asked, ready to note down any additional instructions or preferences Michael might have.

"No, that would be all, thank you, Juliet," Michael "You've outlined a comprehensive plan, and I trust your judgment on these matters."

"Thank you, Mr. Reyes. I will take my leave now and carry out my duties," Juliet bowed her head before leaving Michael's office.

Michael was alone in his office and started to think of something.

"I think it's time to visit the Virtual World again."