MANILA — PLDT stamped its class when it mattered most, outlasting sister team Cignal to secure the final semifinals seat in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference with a gritty 25-21, 25-18, 23-25, 25-21 victory on Monday at the Araneta Coliseum.
The High Speed Hitters, coached by Rald Ricafort, are now headed to their third straight semifinal appearance this season—following deep runs in the 2025 On Tour and the 2025 Invitational—and will now face dark horse Zus Coffee for a ticket to the finals.
Ricafort admitted the team needed to shake off its stinging loss to Petro Gazz in the eliminations, but he was pleased with how quickly his squad reset once the playoffs began.
“Cignal pushed us hard, especially when they stole the third set,” Ricafort said. “Galing sa talo kami, so ang importante sa amin ay ‘yung response. Today, naramdaman namin ‘yung bigat at ‘yung challenge, pero kinaya ng players i-overcome.”
Rookie Alleiah Malaluan played a clutch role in the fourth frame, firing four crucial points that helped PLDT fend off a late Cignal rally. Ricafort praised her poise, calling her entry into the match “sakto at impactful.”
On the offensive end, Savi Davison led the way with a standout all-around performance: 21 points off 18 attacks and three blocks, plus 13 excellent receptions and nine digs. Even so, the PLDT star credited Cignal for making her work for every point.
“They really slowed me down today,” Davison admitted. “It takes a lot to keep your composure when it’s that hard to score, so credit to their blocking and defense.”
Import Anastasiia Bavykina backed her up with 15 points and strong floor defense, while middle blocker Majoy Baron delivered 11 points anchored on five kill blocks—helping PLDT control the net in the clutch.
For Cignal, import Katrin Trebichavska turned in a valiant exit performance with 18 points along with 17 digs and 14 receptions, keeping the Super Spikers within striking distance for most of the duel.
With momentum restored and confidence rebuilt, PLDT now braces for a tough semis collision with a surging Zus Coffee squad determined to extend its own breakthrough run.