Already boasting a champion roster from the PVL On Tour, the PLDT High Speed Hitters continue to raise the bar in the PVL Invitational 2025, now reinforced by rookie sensation Alleiah Malaluan.

The national team standout delivered another strong outing with 12 points as PLDT swept the Cignal HD Spikers, 25-19, 25-13, 25-22, on Saturday, August 23, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. With the victory, the High Speed Hitters improved to 3-0, factoring in their carryover win against Creamline from the On Tour semifinals.

Malaluan, who debuted with 11 points against Chery Tiggo, has quickly established herself as a key piece in Rald Ricafort’s system. Her scoring versatility—ranging from power spikes to crafty off-speed shots—has complemented PLDT’s veteran core led by Savi Davison, Kim Dy, and Majoy Baron.

“It pushes me to raise the bar even higher, kasi alam ko my ates are there to guide me,” said Malaluan, who bagged her second straight Best Player of the Game award.

Veterans steady PLDT’s dominance

Davison, returning after a rest game, powered the attack with 17 points, while also tallying six digs and seven receptions. Baron contributed 10 markers, including three blocks, as PLDT finished with a 47-36 edge in attacks and a 6-3 advantage in blocks.

In the playmaking and defensive duels, Kim Fajardo outgunned Gel Cayuna in setting, 19-8, while libero Kath Arado registered 11 digs and eight receptions to outshine Cignal counterpart Dawn Catindig.

Cignal briefly threatened in the third set, even leading 19-16 after an Ethan Arce ace. But PLDT responded with a steady endgame, highlighted by Davison’s clutch crosscourt kills. The HD Spikers had no challenges left on a crucial late rally, which allowed PLDT to pull away and complete the sweep in just 1 hour and 21 minutes.

Erika Santos top-scored for Cignal with 10 points, while Tin Tiamzon added seven. Rookie Jessa Ordiales chipped in five, but the team slipped to 0-3.

The High Speed Hitters are now riding a 10-game winning streak dating back to their flawless 8-0 run in the PVL On Tour. Just two more wins would secure them a finals berth in this compact Invitational format—further cementing their status as the team to beat.