PLDT sweeps Chery Tiggo to open PVL Invitational campaign

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PLDT opened its 2025 Premier Volleyball League Invitational campaign with a dominant sweep over Chery Tiggo, showcasing its depth despite missing key stars.

The High Speed Hitters rested Savannah Davison, Kianna Dy, and Kim Fajardo but still cruised to a commanding 25-16, 25-14, 25-18 win on Thursday, August 21, at the Philsports Arena. The victory improved PLDT to 2-0 while extending its winning streak to nine straight matches since the preseason.

Rookie Alleiah Malaluan impressed in her professional debut, scoring 11 points while adding 13 digs and nine receptions—nearly posting a triple-double.

Rookie Alleiah Malaluan shines with 11 points in her professional debut. [PVL Images]

Malaluan sparks PLDT’s sweep

PLDT was down 18-20 in the third set before unleashing a 6-0 finishing kick led by Malaluan, Mika Reyes, Angge Alcantara, and Jessey De Leon to close out the match in just one hour and 25 minutes.

Head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized the importance of player recovery, explaining that Davison, Dy, and Fajardo were sidelined to preserve their health after a grueling preseason. He also lauded Malaluan for making the most of her opportunity, calling her a long-awaited reinforcement.

Majoy Baron added 10 points, while De Leon and Reyes chipped in nine and eight, respectively. Alcantara seized her chance as starting setter, tallying 20 excellent sets along with five points, including two service aces. Libero Kath Arado anchored the defense with 23 digs and seven receptions.

Chery Tiggo struggles to find rhythm

The Crossovers, who pushed PLDT to five sets in the PVL On Tour gold medal match last week, fell flat this time. No player reached double figures, with Cess Robles top-scoring with eight points. Ara Galang and Shaya Adorador contributed six each.

The lone highlight for Chery Tiggo was the return of Jennifer Nierva from national team duty with Alas Pilipinas. She finished with 18 excellent digs and nine receptions despite the loss.

PLDT looks to continue its winning run when it faces Cignal on Saturday, while Chery Tiggo will try to bounce back against defending champion Creamline later that evening.