Chapter 2: "The Unexpected Speech"

As I stood on the stage, adjusting the microphone to my height, I couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. The covered court was packed with students, faculty members, and even some parents who had been summoned to the school. The atmosphere was electric, with a mix of curiosity and concern etched on the faces of the audience.

James Sarmiento handed me a folder containing my speech. I took a deep breath, scanning the contents of the folder. The speech was carefully crafted to inform the public about the situation without causing panic.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty members, students, and honored guests," I began, my voice steady. "I stand before you today as the acting director of the Department of Secretive Defense Agency, or DSDA."

A murmur ran through the crowd, with some students exchanging curious glances.

"We are gathered here today at a critical juncture in our nation's history. A mysterious virus, originating from China, has spread rapidly across the globe, leaving devastation in its wake. Our country, the Philippines, is not immune to this threat."

I paused, surveying the audience.

"As we speak, the virus is spreading rapidly, infecting thousands and claiming countless lives. The situation is dire, and we must act swiftly to protect our citizens and our nation."

I took a deep breath, choosing my words carefully.

"The DSDA, in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Defense, has been working tirelessly to develop a solution to this crisis. Our top priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens."

I glanced at James, who nodded encouragingly.

"To achieve this goal, we have launched Project LIFT, a comprehensive initiative aimed at protecting our nation from external threats. The details of this project are classified, but I assure you that it is a vital component of our national defense strategy."

I paused, scanning the audience.

"I urge all of you to remain calm and vigilant. We will provide regular updates on the situation, and we ask for your cooperation and understanding during this challenging time."

As I concluded my speech, the audience erupted into applause, with some students cheering and whistling. I smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.

But just as the applause was dying down, a commotion broke out at the back of the covered court. A group of students rushed in, looking frantic.

"What's going on?" I asked James, who was frowning at the sudden interruption.

"It's Malacañang Palace," one of the students exclaimed. "It's been overrun by the infected! They're reporting that the President is... is dead."

The audience gasped in shock, and I felt my heart sink. The situation had just taken a devastating turn.

James's face turned grim. "We need to act fast, Acting Director. The country is in chaos, and we're running out of time."

I nodded, my mind racing with the implications. The President was dead, and the seat of government was in the hands of the infected. It was a catastrophic scenario, and I knew that I had to make some tough decisions to ensure the survival of our nation.

"James, get the chopper ready," I said, my voice firm. "We need to get to the DSDA headquarters ASAP. We have a lot of work to do, and not a lot of time to waste."

James nodded, already pulling out his phone to make the arrangements. "I'll get the team to prep the chopper, sir. We'll be ready to leave in 10 minutes."

I nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over me. It was time to take charge, and lead our nation through this darkest of times.

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