PLDT continued to build quiet but convincing momentum in the PVL All-Filipino Conference after outlasting Akari in four sets, 25-22, 25-27, 25-21, 25-15, on Thursday night at the Filoil Centre in San Juan to remain unbeaten through three games.
The High Speed Hitters leaned on depth, discipline, and relentless floor defense to overcome a stubborn Chargers side that refused to fold early. After surrendering a tight second set, PLDT responded with sharper execution and steadier coverage, gradually wearing Akari down as the match wore on.
Savi Davison once again set the tone offensively, finishing with 18 points highlighted by 16 attacks while also contributing solid back-row work with eight receptions. PLDT’s balance was on full display as four other players reached double figures, ensuring Akari never found a defensive read that stuck.
Majoy Baron and Kim Kianna Dy delivered 14 points apiece, providing consistent scoring at crucial stretches, while Mika Reyes and Alleiah Malaluan added 10 each to keep the pressure constant. At the center of it all was setter Kim Fajardo, who efficiently ran the offense with 18 excellent sets out of the team’s 21, allowing PLDT to stay composed even during extended rallies.
While the scoring was spread out, the match swung decisively on defense. Libero Kath Arado anchored the backcourt with a match-high 26 digs and 10 receptions, repeatedly extending plays and frustrating Akari’s attackers.
“Alam naming hindi magiging madali lalo na’t defense-oriented din ang Akari. Lahat sila gumagalaw at lumalaban, kaya kailangan talagang tiyaga at mahabang pasensya,” Arado said in the league’s postgame update.
Akari showed flashes of resilience behind Grethcel Soltones, who led all Chargers with 16 points, all off attacks, while Ivy Lacsina added 13. But the Chargers could not sustain their pressure after the second set, slipping to 0-3 as PLDT pulled away late.
With the win, PLDT High Speed Hitters moved to 3-0 in the conference, signaling a steady climb built on defense, balance, and patience—qualities that are quickly turning them into one of the early teams to beat. Akari Chargers, meanwhile, continue to search for answers as the All-Filipino Conference unfolds.
