PLDT wrapped up its Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign with a straight-sets win on Thursday, April 16, sweeping Cignal, 25-17, 25-22, 25-23, in a non-bearing semifinal match. The result, however, came too late to alter its fate after already being eliminated from finals contention.

Despite the stakes no longer in play, PLDT delivered a composed performance, leaning on its depth and execution to dominate the match from start to finish. The victory highlighted the potential that once made the squad an early title contender before its campaign unraveled in the Final Four.

Cignal, already assured of a Finals berth, opted to rest key players, allowing its bench to log extended minutes ahead of the championship series. The decision showed in the team’s rhythm, particularly in key stretches where execution faltered late in sets.

PLDT controls tempo to finish strong

PLDT imposed its will early and maintained control throughout the match, capitalizing on its offensive balance and net presence. Savi Davison led the charge with 21 points, while Alleiah Malaluan added 11 as the team sustained pressure on the opposition defense.

The High Speed Hitters also drew steady contributions from Mika Reyes, Kim Dy and Majoy Baron, who combined for key points that kept the momentum on their side. Their advantage at the net proved decisive, finishing with an 8-2 edge in blocks while also holding a slight lead in attacks.

Cignal showed resistance in the latter sets, particularly in the third where it erased multiple deficits and forced a 23-all deadlock. However, PLDT regrouped in time, with Malaluan delivering a crucial hit before Reyes sealed the win with a key block.

Missed opportunities define campaign

For Cignal, Jessa Ordiales led the scoring with 13 points, while Erin Pangilinan, Ishie Lalongisip and Jewel Encarnacion provided additional support. Despite the loss, the team’s focus remained on the upcoming Finals, having already secured its place earlier in the round.

PLDT’s victory served as a reminder of its capability, but also underscored missed opportunities in the semifinals. The team opened the Final Four with a five-set loss after holding a 2-1 lead, followed by another defeat that ended its title hopes.

Meanwhile, Cignal’s journey to the Finals took a different path, highlighted by comeback wins and consistent performances that secured its spot in the championship round. The team will face Creamline in a best-of-three Finals series beginning Tuesday, April 21 at the Araneta Coliseum.

PLDT will shift its attention to the battle for third place against Farm Fresh, looking to end its campaign on a stronger note despite falling short of its ultimate goal.