The PLDT High Speed Hitters. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA (UPDATED) — PLDT tightened its grip of the top spot in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference.
The qualifying round-bound High Speed Hitters moved to a 7-1 win-loss card by beating Choco Mucho, 23-25, 25-21, 25-19, 25-19, on Saturday at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
In the swing frame, the Rald Ricafort-coached squad cruised to a 10-3 start, creating the separation it needed to pull away from the fan favorites Flying Titans.
Dante Alinsunurin's wards threatened with a 4-0 run from the 23-15 count, but rookie Alleiah Malaluan answered back by firing an attack and an ace to seal the deal.
With the win, PLDT has stretched its winning run to four matches, and is now a victory away from securing the number one seed.
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"We all know na Choco [Mucho] is a very offensive team and kita naman sa start na nag-struggle kami to contain ‘yung mga wingers," said Kianna Dy, who was named Player of the Game after tallying 17 points on 12 attacks and five blocks.
"So, sinabihan rin kami ng mga coaches kung ano ‘yung adjustments na kailangan for the blockings, and nakuha rin namin ‘yung rhythm eventually. Pero it wasn’t easy, so credits din sa Choco sa attacks nila," she added, acknowledging the offensive efforts of the other side.
Dy was among the four PLDT players who were in double-digit scoring — a well-orchestrated offense set up by Kim Fajardo, who registered 23 excellent sets.
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Fil-Canadian Savi Davison had 19 points, 15 excellent receptions, and six excellent digs, as Majoy Baron had 13 points and three blocks, and Malaluan chipped in 10 markers.
On the other hand, Choco Mucho's bid for a qualifying berth complicated after the loss, dropping to 3-5. Rondina, Choco Mucho's leader, had a near triple-double of 23 points, 14 excellent receptions, and eight excellent digs. Kat Tolentino added 15 markers, while Eya Laure was held to four points.