GAMES SUNDAY
(MOA Arena)
4 p.m. – Cignal vs Creamline (battle for 3rd)
6:30 p.m. – Chery Tiggo vs PLDT (battle for crown)
WITH perhaps the biggest stumbling block to its dream Premier Volleyball League title out of the way, PLDT shifts its full focus to the final hurdle—one that will challenge not just its skills, depth and firepower, but its character.
“Siguro more of, move on agadditosapanalo. Nandiyanrin ‘yung Chery (Tiggo) sa Finals dahiltrinabahorinnila. Maayosrin ‘yungtaonila. NakabaliknarinsilaImee (Hernandez) taposmagandarin ‘yungna-pick up nila from Draft, (tapos) may Ara (Galang),” said PLDT head coach RaldRicafort after the High Speed Hitters rallied from 1-2 set down and overpowered the Creamline Cool Smashers in Set 5 in their heated semis clash last Tuesday.
“Malakingbagaytalaganamakapag-prepare, maka-move on at maka-focus ulit kami against Chery na,” he added.
The High Speed Hitters marched into the one-game finale of the PVL On Tour unbeaten, their rise driven by hard work, grit and willingness to adapt. But all that could quickly fade if they falter against a Chery Tiggo squad hungry to reclaim its place atop the league.
PLDT’s route to the finals hasn’t been without adversity. From surviving a dramatic five-set duel against the Cool Smashers—highlighted by Savi Davison’s 34-point eruption—to enduring off-court challenges, including being stranded during the Habagat onslaught, the team has been tested in every way imaginable. And every test, they’ve passed.
What makes PLDT’s rise particularly impressive is its overwhelming firepower and balanced rotation. The return of Davison has given the High Speed Hitters a true offensive anchor – a go-to scorer capable of breaking games open with her explosiveness and range.
But even in the Fil-Canadian’s absence, PLDT proved it was no one-woman show.
At the net, the trio of Majoy Baron, Mika Reyes and Kim Dy has formed a fearsome wall, turning PLDT’s frontline into a near-impenetrable fortress. Dy’s renewed health and form add another layer of offense, while Kim Fajardo, with her veteran poise, runs the plays with precision and vision.
Complementing the core is Kath Arado, one of the league’s most consistent liberos, whose stability and digging prowess give PLDT transition opportunities off every rally. And when the starters need rest, the bench steps up – no hesitation, no drop in quality.
It’s a roster that has everything: power, depth, chemistry and momentum.
But standing in PLDT’s way is a team that knows exactly how to win when it matters most.
Chery Tiggo, the league’s inaugural pro champion, is no stranger to underdog storylines. The Crossovers’ four-set dismantling of the Cignal HD Spikers in the semifinals reminded everyone that this team, while still evolving, thrives in high-stakes moments. Their ability to dig deep and trust in one another has been a defining trait.
“We just trust each other. That’s a big factor,” said Galang. “But it’s not over yet. What matters now is staying focused and maximizing each player’s strengths.”
