After going undrafted in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft, University of the Philippines standout Joan Monares has quickly found a new chapter in her volleyball journey, this time at the professional level with the PLDT High Speed Hitters.
PLDT officially introduced Monares on Friday through a social media announcement, marking her as the final addition to complete the team’s roster build ahead of the 2026-2027 PVL season.
“We all want more of Joan Monares so here we go! The outside hitter from UP becomes the final piece of PLDT’s recruitment before the start of the 2026-2027 PVL season!” the team said.
Her arrival adds depth to an already stacked wing rotation that includes Savi Davison, Alleiah Malaluan, Kiesha Bedonia, Shiela Kiseo, and Jovie Prado, giving PLDT multiple attacking options heading into a crucial campaign.
Monares’ collegiate career with the UP Fighting Maroons was defined by steady offensive production and leadership in a rebuilding program that often relied on her consistency against top UAAP contenders.
At UP, she developed into one of the team’s primary scoring options, carrying a heavy offensive load while competing against some of the strongest collegiate programs in the country.
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DIAL J FOR JOAN
PLDT adds even more firepower to its roster as former UP outside hitter and free agent Joan Monares joins the High Speed Hitters ahead of the 2026 PVL on Tour!#PVL2026 #TheHeartofVolleyball pic.twitter.com/wQfrlnmWGP
— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) June 12, 2026
Her experience in the UAAP not only tested her scoring ability but also shaped her into a more composed presence in high-pressure situations—something PLDT will look to maximize in the pro ranks.
PLDT, meanwhile, is entering the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference with heightened expectations after an up-and-down run in previous seasons, where flashes of brilliance were often tempered by inconsistency in closing out tight matches.
The High Speed Hitters have been steadily building chemistry under a balanced core, but the addition of Monares gives them another dynamic scoring option who can relieve pressure from their established wing attackers.
Their campaign in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference showed both promise and growing pains, as PLDT pushed several top-tier squads to the limit but struggled to sustain momentum across full matches.
With Monares now in the fold alongside setter Fianne Ariola of Perpetual Help, PLDT’s roster gains both youth and versatility as they continue refining their system for a deeper playoff push in the upcoming season.
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