Cignal flipped the script in the PVL Reinforced Conference with a straight-set upset over powerhouse PLDT, scoring one of the season’s most shocking victories at the Araneta Coliseum.

With no import and star hitter Vanie Gandler sidelined by injury, the Super Spikers relied solely on local talent to stun the High Speed Hitters, 25-17, 25-22, 25-21. The win snapped PLDT’s 15-game winning streak and reignited Cignal’s semifinal hopes.

It was a night defined by grit and chemistry as Cignal refused to be intimidated by the reigning champions. The team’s disciplined floor defense and creative playmaking disrupted PLDT’s rhythm early and never let up.

Cignal thrives with all-Filipino lineup

Setter and captain Gel Cayuna orchestrated Cignal’s offense with 20 excellent sets and six points, including a crucial 1-2 play in the third set that broke PLDT’s comeback attempt.

“I really wanted to bounce back because we’ve been struggling to find our rhythm,” Cayuna said in Filipino. “This win reminded us that heart and teamwork can win games.”

Erika Santos powered the offense with 17 points while Ishie Lalongisip added 15. Heather Guino-o sealed the sweep with a service ace that capped Cignal’s most complete performance of the conference.

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PLDT’s dominance comes to an end

For PLDT, the defeat marked the end of its dominant run that spanned the PVL On Tour and Invitational tournaments. Import Nastya Bavykina and Savi Davison were limited to 10 and 14 points respectively, as Cignal controlled the match’s tempo.

Cignal outperformed PLDT in all key stats—50-34 in attacks, 5-2 in blocks, and 7-4 in aces—proving its all-Filipino system could compete with the league’s elite.

“This is a huge confidence boost for us,” said Cayuna. “We know we can fight anyone in this PVL Reinforced Conference.”

The win lifted Cignal to 1-2 in Pool A ahead of its next clash with Nxled at the Ynares Center in Montalban.