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Tag: Kim Kianna Dy

  • Kianna Dy celebrates early birthday with family, powers PLDT to winning start in Vigan 

    Kianna Dy celebrates early birthday with family, powers PLDT to winning start in Vigan 

    For Kianna Dy, PLDT’s opening match in the 2026 PVL On Tour became more than just another preseason game.

     

    It turned into an early birthday celebration surrounded by the people who matter most.

     

    With her family making the long journey from Manila to Vigan City and Gilas Pilipinas star Dwight Ramos also in attendance, Dy responded with one of her best performances of the preseason, firing a match-high 17 points to lift the High Speed Hitters past Choco Mucho, 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18, on Saturday at the CHAVIT Coliseum in Ilocos Sur.

     

    The victory gave PLDT a winning start in its title defense in the On Tour tournament, but for Dy, the emotional support from the stands made the afternoon even more memorable.

     

    “I really appreciate them because the travel here is not easy, and it takes seven hours going here, and they’re here to watch my game and celebrate my birthday tomorrow,” said Dy.

     

    Among those who made the trip were her mother Bambi, sisters Kaila, Cheeni, and Nika, along with Ramos, whose family has roots in nearby Narvacan, Ilocos Sur.

     

    The veteran opposite spiker rewarded them with an efficient outing, tallying 16 attack points and one block while providing the steady offensive presence PLDT needed throughout the match.

     

    Savi Davison chipped in 13 points despite playing only three sets, while veteran middle blockers Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron added 12 and 10 points, respectively.

     

    The Flying Titans, however, hardly made life easy for the High Speed Hitters.

     

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    Despite missing national team stars Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure, Choco Mucho showed its depth by stealing the second set and pushing the third frame into a tense extended battle before PLDT finally pulled away late to seize control of the match.

     

    The victory also highlighted the High Speed Hitters’ balanced attack, with multiple veterans stepping up whenever momentum threatened to shift in Choco Mucho’s favor.

     

    Still, Dy believes the preseason opener also exposed areas the team must continue refining before the 2026-27 PVL season officially begins.

     

    “It was really an intense game, one is to one talaga. And Choco Mucho mahirap talaga silang kalaban — buti na lang ‘yung mga pumasok talagang nag-perform. Obviously, we need to work on a lot of things for our next games. Pagbalik ng Manila, adjust ulit,” said the 5-foot-11 opposite spiker.

     

    PLDT now shifts its attention to its next PVL On Tour assignment against ZUS Coffee on August 8 in Santiago City, Isabela, hoping to build on a winning start that was made even sweeter by an early birthday celebration for one of its veteran leaders.

     

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  • PVL Press Corps unveils major awardees for PVL Awards Night  

    PVL Press Corps unveils major awardees for PVL Awards Night  

    From rising superstars and breakout scorers to seasoned veterans and inspiring comeback stories, the 2025-26 PVL season produced no shortage of memorable performances.

     

    Now, the league’s brightest names are set to take center stage once more as the best players and biggest stories of the year will be celebrated in the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night on May 30 at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao.

     

    Headlining the annual recognition rites is Capital1 rookie sensation Bella Belen, whose seamless transition to the professional ranks earned her the Rookie of the Year award after an impressive debut season.

     

    The former National University star immediately became one of the Solar Spikers’ focal points, showcasing her all-around brilliance on both offense and defense while proving she could thrive under the pressure that came with being the top overall pick of the 2025 PVL Draft.

     

    Belen tallied 69 media votes, 26 team votes, and 91.284 statistical points to finish with 186.284 total points and beat fellow rookies AC Miner, Jean Asis, and Riza Nogales for the recognition.

     

    Her stellar campaign also earned her a place in the season’s Mythical Team and the Best Outside Spiker award after emerging as one of the league’s top scorers and receivers during the All-Filipino Conference.

     

    Joining her in the Best Outside Spiker category is PLDT star Savi Davison, who once again established herself as one of the league’s most consistent offensive weapons.

     

    But the awards night won’t simply celebrate new stars — it will also honor the veterans and comeback stories that shaped the season.

     

    Creamline icon Alyssa Valdez will receive the Miss Quality Minutes award after repeatedly delivering in crucial moments for the Cool Smashers during one of the franchise’s toughest title runs.

     

    With several key Creamline stars dealing with injuries late in the conference, Valdez stepped up with timely performances that helped steady the team en route to its 11th PVL championship.

     

    Another emotional highlight of the night belongs to Kianna Dy, who captured the Comeback Player of the Year award following her inspiring return from a lengthy knee injury recovery.

     

    After missing 559 days, the PLDT standout gradually rediscovered her rhythm and eventually became a major piece in the High Speed Hitters’ successful campaign that included titles in the PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference before a bronze medal finish in the All-Filipino Conference.

     

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    Meanwhile, Erika Santos’ rise into stardom earned her the Most Improved Player award.

     

    Following her move from PLDT to Cignal, Santos blossomed into one of the league’s premier scorers and helped power the Super Spikers to a breakthrough finals appearance in the All-Filipino Conference. Her breakout year also included winning MVP honors during the 2025 PVL On Tour.

     

    Farm Fresh standout Trisha Tubu will also be recognized after winning Best Opposite Spiker honors behind a season that elevated both her reputation and the Foxies franchise.

     

    Tubu spearheaded Farm Fresh’s historic fourth-place finish in the All-Filipino Conference while cementing herself as one of the league’s most dangerous scorers.

     

    Several of the PVL’s most reliable veterans and specialists are likewise set to receive recognition.

     

    Cignal playmaker Gel Cayuna earned Best Setter honors after orchestrating one of the league’s top offenses, while PLDT defensive anchor Kath Arado took home the Best Libero award once again behind another elite season on the floor.

     

    Creamline veteran Pangs Panaga and PLDT ace Majoy Baron, meanwhile, secured the Best Middle Blocker citations after anchoring their respective teams at the net throughout the year.

     

    Taken together, the awardees perfectly captured the story of the PVL season itself — a campaign defined by new stars emerging, veterans continuing to deliver, and players overcoming adversity to leave their mark on the league.

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez, Kianna Dy, and Erika Santos headline honorees at the PVL Press Corps Awards Night 

    Alyssa Valdez, Kianna Dy, and Erika Santos headline honorees at the PVL Press Corps Awards Night 

    The spotlight of the Philippine volleyball season will shift to one stage on May 30 at Novotel Manila Araneta City, where the PVL Press Corps Awards Night returns to recognize the league’s defining performers and players whose impact went beyond numbers. 


    Three of the biggest names in the past PVL season will be formally honored on the awards night. Alyssa Valdez, Kianna Dy, and Erika Santos will all be recognized for their respective achievements that shaped their teams’ campaigns throughout the season.

     

    The Phenom Alyssa Valdez will once again take center stage, earning the Miss Quality Minutes honor after anchoring the Creamline Cool Smashers during one of their most testing campaigns in recent years. 

     

    With key teammates sidelined by injuries in the All-Filipino Conference, Valdez stepped into crucial moments and delivered steady, timely performances that helped stabilize Creamline on its way to an 11th PVL championship.

     

    Her consistency in pressure situations earned her 10.2 media votes and 2.8 team votes, topping fellow nominees Chennie Tagaod of Akari and Royse Tubino of Farm Fresh in the category backed by Rebisco and Immuni+.

     

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    For Kianna Dy, the recognition tells a different kind of comeback story. After missing 559 days due to a knee injury, the PLDT opposite hitter returned in January 2025.

     

    She quickly re-established herself as one of the league’s most dependable closers, powering the PLDT High Speed Hitters to titles in both the PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference.

     

    Her impact extended into the All-Filipino Conference, where she helped PLDT secure a bronze medal finish — the franchise’s best result in the tournament was highlighted by clutch championship-sealing blocks in key matches. 

     

    Dy topped the Comeback Player of the Year voting with 10.2 media votes and 4.8 team votes, beating Ces Molina, Jema Galanza, and Kat Tolentino.

     

    Meanwhile, Erika Santos represents the season’s breakthrough narrative after transforming into a primary scoring force. After her move from PLDT to Cignal, Santos embraced a bigger offensive role and quickly emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous hitters.

     

    Her rise was highlighted by a Most Valuable Player award in the 2025 PVL On Tour and a Finals appearance in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference marking the Cignal HD Spikers’ first Finals berth in two years. 

     

    She dominated the Most Improved Player voting with 12.0 media votes and 4.4 team votes before later joining the Capital1 Solar Spikers following Cignal’s leave of absence.

     

    She topped the field over fellow finalists Justine Jazareno of Akari, as well as Cloanne Mondonedo and Chinnie Arroyo of ZUS Coffee, to claim the honor.

     

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  • Kianna Dy, Erika Santos lead new wave in Alas Pilipinas pool for AVC Women’s Cup 

    Kianna Dy, Erika Santos lead new wave in Alas Pilipinas pool for AVC Women’s Cup 

    FA new chapter is quietly taking shape for the Alas Pilipinas Women—and this time, it’s built on both fresh energy and familiar leadership.

     

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation has unveiled a 27-player wishlist for the 2026 AVC Women’s Cup, offering an early glimpse of a national team that blends rising collegiate standouts with proven names from the pro ranks.

     

    Among those drawing attention are new additions Kianna Dy and Erika Santos, who headline a group of reinforcements expected to inject depth and versatility into the pool. They are joined by fellow Premier Volleyball League performers Jean Asis and Riza Nogales, signaling a stronger pro presence in the national setup.

     

    The collegiate ranks also made a strong case for inclusion, with standouts like Sam Cantada, Shaira Jardio, Jaz Ellarina, Tin Ubaldo, and Niña Ytang earning spots in the expanded pool. Their inclusion reflects a clear direction—building a pipeline that bridges the college and professional levels.

     

    At the core of the group remains leadership and continuity. Veteran playmaker Jia De Guzman is set to captain the pool once more, joined by familiar names such as Eya Laure, Maddie Madayag, Mars Alba, Fifi Sharma, Justine Jazareno, Jen Nierva, Alleiah Malaluan, Vanie Gandler, and Bella Belen—a group that ensures stability amid the influx of new talent.

     

    The mix extends further with collegiate holdovers like Angel Canino, Amie Provido, Shaina Nitura, and Arah Panique, alongside additional reinforcements such as Shevanah Laput and Alyssa Solomon, who is currently seeing action overseas.

     

    Rounding out the pool are NCAA standouts Zam Nolasco and Vanessa Sarie, further emphasizing the federation’s effort to widen its talent search.

     

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    0px;”>Beyond the names, however, the announcement also carried a different tone—one focused on rebuilding trust and improving player conditions.

     

    “The PNVF reaffirms its commitment to the welfare of all national team athletes. We have heard the voices of our players and take their concerns seriously. The federation is actively addressing outstanding financial obligations and is committed to ensuring timely compensation and transparent financial processes going forward,” the federation said.

     

    “Athletes joining the training pool will be entitled to clearly defined support structures, including competitive allowances, insurance coverage, and a communicated training and competition calendar that respects their club and personal schedules. PNVF commits to maintaining open dialogue channels with player representatives throughout the duration of the national team program.”

     

    The final composition of the training pool will depend on player availability, with preparations expected to begin in early May. Hosting the tournament from June 6 to 14 in Candon adds another layer of motivation, especially after the team’s silver-medal finish in the previous edition.

     

    This time, the goal is clear—not just to compete, but to complete the climb.

     

    And with a refreshed pool led by both rising stars and seasoned leaders, Alas Pilipinas is positioning itself for a stronger push toward gold on home soil.

     

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  • PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    In the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), postgame interviews have become just as compelling as the matches themselves, especially when certain players stand out not only for their performance on the court but also for how they express themselves off it. Some athletes come across as well-spoken in interviews because of a combination of preparation, experience, and natural communication skills. Many teams also provide media training, helping players learn how to answer questions clearly, stay composed under pressure, and represent their squad professionally in front of the media.

     

    Over time, repeated exposure to high-pressure situations plays a major role in shaping how athletes communicate. Veteran players become more comfortable processing emotions quickly and responding with clarity even after intense matches. A deeper understanding of the game also adds substance to their answers, allowing them to break down strategies, momentum shifts, and key moments in a more insightful way.

     

    Jia De Guzman 

     

    Jia De Guzman of the Creamline Cool Smashers continues to set the standard for articulate leadership in the PVL. As Creamline’s veteran setter and Alas Pilipinas captain, she is consistently present in postgame interviews where she explains matches with calm precision. In Creamline’s ongoing Finals run, where they already secured Game 1 against Cignal, De Guzman delivered 22 excellent sets and added four points, showing her control on both ends of the game. 


    Her ability to break down tactical details reflects years of experience dating back to her Ateneo Lady Eagles days. Beyond the court, she has also been vocal on national team concerns, speaking firmly yet calmly about athlete welfare and structured competition.

     

    Vanie Gandler 

     

    Vanie Gandler of the Cignal HD Spikers is another player known for her composed and thoughtful postgame presence. In Cignal’s Finals campaign in the PVL All-Filipino Conference, she remains one of the team’s key scorers, finishing Game 1 against Creamline with 17 attack points and 10 receptions. 

     

    Despite the tough loss, Gandler maintains a positive and reflective tone in interviews, often focusing on resilience, mindset, and improvement. A former Ateneo Lady Eagle like De Guzman, she carries collegiate discipline into her professional career, balancing competitiveness with maturity in her responses.

     

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    Fifi Sharma

     

    Fifi Sharma of the Akari Chargers is known for her structured and straightforward way of speaking after matches. She avoids unnecessary filler and often explains not just what happened, but why it happened. Although Akari fell short of a semifinal spot in the PVL All-Filipino Conference after being eliminated by Creamline in the playoffs, Sharma remained composed in postgame discussions, focusing on clarity and accountability. 

     

    A former De La Salle University standout, she brings UAAP-level discipline into her professional career. She has also occasionally worked as a commentator in PVL games, where her technical understanding of volleyball adds depth to her analysis.

     

    Kim Kianna Dy

     

    Kim Kianna Dy of the PLDT High Speed Hitters is often noted for her relaxed, conversational interview style. In PLDT’s recent PVL All-Filipino Conference bronze medal series, she contributed 16 points in a dramatic five-set Game 1 win over Farm Fresh. Dy’s speaking style often blends English and Filipino naturally or what they usually say “conyo”. 

     

    Reflecting a casual but confident media presence developed through her years with De La Salle University, where she experienced championship runs and MVP-level attention. Despite the informal tone, she remains clear in explaining game flow and consistently highlights teamwork and support from her squad.

     

    Ponggay Gaston

     

    Ponggay Gaston of the Capital1 Solar Spikers stands out for her energetic and engaging communication style. Known for her humor, personality, and great banter, she is also well known as a commentator in volleyball games. As a commentator, she brings the game to life through clear, engaging, and knowledgeable narration. She has a strong understanding of volleyball tactics and demonstrates excellent timing, knowing when to step in with analysis and when to let the excitement of a rally speak for itself. 

     

    A former Ateneo Lady Eagle, Gaston combines confidence with relatability when speaking to the media. While Capital1 fell short in the PVL Play-In round against Galeries Tower and missed the semifinals, she remained expressive and reflective in postgame interviews, balancing honesty with optimism.

     

    Across these players, one clear pattern emerges: being well-spoken is shaped by experience, collegiate development, leadership roles, and repeated exposure to high-pressure matches. Whether as champions, contenders, or rising talents, their words reflect not only performance—but also growth, awareness, and maturity as professional athletes.

     

    Their collegiate backgrounds also play a significant role in shaping how confidently and articulately they communicate. All of the players mentioned come from two of the most prestigious universities in the country, Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University—both part of the UAAP and known for producing elite volleyball talents. These programs have long been recognized for honing not only athletic excellence but also discipline, leadership, and communication skills, helping shape professional athletes who are just as composed off the court as they are competitive on it.

     

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  • Kim Kianna Dy calls out PLDT’s finishing issues after crucial PVL semifinal loss

    Kim Kianna Dy calls out PLDT’s finishing issues after crucial PVL semifinal loss

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters saw their hopes of reaching the finals of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference take a significant blow after absorbing a stunning four-set defeat at the hands of the Farm Fresh Foxies on Tuesday, April 14, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    In a match that swung in momentum several times, the Foxies emerged victorious, 25-23, 18-25, 25-19, 25-23, dealing PLDT their second consecutive loss in the semifinal round and pushing them to the brink of elimination.

     

    At the heart of Farm Fresh’s breakthrough win was rising star Trisha Tubu, who delivered a career-defining performance. The young spiker erupted for 28 points and showcased remarkable composure under pressure, particularly in the closing stretch of the fourth set. With the match hanging in the balance, Tubu scored all but one of the Foxies’ final seven points, powering a dramatic comeback that stunned both PLDT and the crowd.

     

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    PLDT, which had entered the semifinals as the top-seeded team with just one loss in the preliminary phase, appeared poised to extend the match to a deciding fifth set. However, their inability to close out crucial moments once again proved costly—a concern that has lingered despite their strong showing earlier in the conference.

     

    Star hitter Kim Kianna Dy did not hide her frustration following the defeat, pointing to the team’s struggles in finishing games as a recurring issue.

     

    “It’s how we end the game talaga. It’s always almost there but not getting the goal. It’s really something we have to work on hanggang sa dulo because wala eh, sayang. Breaks of the game din eh,” Dy said in a media interaction.

    “Farm Fresh wanted it more. Sayang lang ‘yung opportunity kasi we were so close to going into the fifth set,” she added.

     

    The loss was particularly painful given PLDT’s dominant run in the group stage, where they established themselves as one of the title favorites. From a position of strength, the High Speed Hitters now find themselves in a precarious situation, with their finals hopes hanging by a thread after back-to-back semifinal setbacks.

     

    Another defeat—this time against the Cignal Super Spikers—would officially end their campaign, making their upcoming match a virtual do-or-die encounter.

     

    Despite the uphill battle, Dy emphasized that the team has not lost belief, even as emotions ran high in the aftermath of the loss.

     

    “It’s sad eh, very sad. The mood in the dugout, people were sad kasi it’s tough for us na to reach the finals. We have one more game to work on and the conference is not yet over for us. We have a chance to finish strong so we are gonna continue working on sa mga kulang namin.

     

    “We are still gonna give our all. The conference is not yet over for us and it’s still an important game. We are gonna see how do we bounce back from this kasi we can’t be satisfied with where we are now. Obviously, kulang kasi talo,” Dy concluded.

     

    All eyes will now be on PLDT as they attempt to regroup and salvage their campaign in their final semifinal assignment against Cignal on Thursday, April 16, at the FilOil Centre.

     

    With their backs against the wall, the High Speed Hitters face their toughest test yet—not just in terms of skill and execution, but in resilience and character—as they fight to keep their championship aspirations alive.

     

     

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  • Kim Kianna Dy’s comeback powers PLDT’s semifinal breakthrough

    Kim Kianna Dy’s comeback powers PLDT’s semifinal breakthrough

    PLDT’s march into the semifinals wasn’t just about securing a crucial win, it became a defining chapter in Kim Kianna Dy’s steady return to form.

     

    After dropping the opening set, the High Speed Hitters regrouped and imposed their rhythm to claim an 18-25, 25-23, 25-15, 25-22 victory over Farm Fresh at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday. 

     

    Dy delivered 19 points built on 17 attacks, a block, and six excellent digs, providing crucial support to Savi Davison’s 22-point output. 

     

    More than the numbers, however, it was her presence in key stretches that helped PLDT stabilize after a shaky start and maintain control through the final sets.

     

    “I guess it’s me just getting used to playing again and matagal na rin ‘yung injury ko, so na-build up ko rin ‘yung confidence ko coming into this tournament,” the 30-year-old outside hitter said.

     

    For Dy, the journey back hasn’t been simple. A patellar tendon tear in her right knee previously disrupted her rhythm during her stint with F2 Logistics and even in her early run with PLDT. But instead of rushing the process, she leaned into preparation, both on and off the court.

     

    “For me personally, I think we had a longer preparation before coming into this tournament. And, not just court-wise, but also physically. Basically, I couldn’t stop rehabbing my knee, so that’s one thing that really helped me,” said the former DLSU standout.

     

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    Now, that patience is paying off. Dy has gradually transformed into a dependable option again, especially in high-pressure situations like their clash with Farm Fresh. 

     

    Her composure and timing have begun to mirror the form that once made her one of the league’s most consistent contributors. Still, she credits her progress to the people around her as much as to her own effort.

     

    “I guess yung support sa team, coaches, and yung supporters namin. ‘Di sila… They didn’t give up on me,” Dy said. 

     

    With the victory, PLDT becomes the first team to lock in a semifinal berth along with the Cignal Super Spikers. 

     

    Meanwhile, Farm Fresh remains in the hunt and will look to keep its campaign alive against the winner of the play-in match between Nxled and Galeries Tower.

     

    As PLDT moves forward, Dy’s resurgence may prove just as important as their place in the standings—a reminder that sometimes, the biggest wins are the ones that signal a player is truly back.

     

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  • Kim Kianna Dy admits struggles against Sisi Rondina in PLDT’s win

    Kim Kianna Dy admits struggles against Sisi Rondina in PLDT’s win

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters have opened their 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign in dominant fashion, compiling an impressive 7–1 record to sit atop the standings early in the tournament. With a blend of veteran leadership and disciplined system play, PLDT has quickly established itself as one of the teams to beat in this conference.

     

    The High Speed Hitters sustained their strong run in their most recent outing, overcoming the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in four sets, 23–25, 25–21, 25–19, 25–19, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Saturday, March 14. After dropping a tightly contested opening set, PLDT showed composure and resilience, making key adjustments on both ends of the floor to take control of the match and secure the win.

     

    Despite the victory, PLDT star Kianna Dy acknowledged the challenge posed by one of the league’s most explosive players, Sisi Rondina. A former PVL Most Valuable Player, Rondina once again proved why she remains one of the most feared attackers in the league, finishing with 23 points built on 20 attacks and three service aces.

     

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    Dy admitted that Rondina’s offensive firepower initially caught them off guard, forcing PLDT to regroup and make in-game adjustments after the opening set.

    “Kasi nung first set talaga wala akong makapa kay Sisi. As in ang taas, ang lakas. So really had to adjust, kasi kung hindi kami makaka-adjust, medyo baka mag-uba ‘yung results,” Dy said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    After struggling to contain Rondina early, the High Speed Hitters tightened their defensive schemes, showing improved timing on their blocks and better floor coverage. Their adjustments paid off as they limited Rondina’s efficiency in the latter sets while maintaining consistent scoring on their end.

     

    Head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized that facing a player of Rondina’s caliber inevitably comes with challenges. He noted that the key lies not in completely stopping such a high-level scorer, but in staying patient, disciplined, and committed to the team’s system.

     

    “Yun na yun, bibigay mo talaga yung mga hindi maabot, yung mga sobrang lakas. Pero more on talaga sa patience ng naba-block. Yun, at yun naman ang ibibigay namin sa kanya, kaya tinake na lang namin yung mga pwedeng kunin at siguraduhing hindi mawawala sa syatem na gusto namin para sa kanya,” Ricafort added.

     

    PLDT’s ability to weather early pressure and execute adjustments underscores the maturity and cohesion within the squad. Their balanced attack and defensive discipline have been central to their success so far, allowing them to respond effectively against top-tier competition.

     

    As the All-Filipino Conference progresses, the High Speed Hitters will aim to sustain their momentum and hold on to the top spot, with tougher matchups expected ahead. If their current form is any indication, PLDT appears well-equipped to remain a strong contender deep into the tournament.

     

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  • Bella Belen, Kim Kianna Dy excited for PVL All-Star Showcase return

    Bella Belen, Kim Kianna Dy excited for PVL All-Star Showcase return

    The Philippines’ top volleyball stars are set to take center stage when the Volleyball All-Star Showcase brings together standout players from the Premier Volleyball League and Spikers’ Turf on May 1 at the Candon City Arena.

     

    The event marks the long-awaited return of the league’s All-Star festivities, which were last staged in 2019. Its comeback has generated considerable excitement across the Philippine volleyball community, not only among fans eager to see their favorite stars share the same court but also among the players themselves, many of whom are looking forward to the rare opportunity to compete alongside athletes from rival clubs.

     

    Among those enthusiastic about the upcoming showcase is Bella Belen, the rising superstar of the Capital1 Solar Spikers. One of the league’s brightest young talents, Belen shared her excitement during a recent media interaction, expressing hope that she could be selected to participate in the special exhibition match.

     

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    “I saw the All-Star announcement. It’s the first time in the pros right? I’m very happy that we will have one. And if ever I make it to the team, do you also want me to be a referee? I might give you a yellow card even before we get there,” Belen said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond the fun and lighthearted atmosphere expected during the event, Belen emphasized that the All-Star showcase ultimately serves as a celebration for the fans who support the sport year-round.

     

    “This is for the fans. For sure, they have players they would like to see playing together on one team, so this is their chance to see that dream happen,” she added.

    Another player who expressed excitement about the event is Kim Kianna Dy of the PLDT High Speed Hitters. A consistent crowd favorite in the PVL, Dy highlighted how meaningful it is to bring a major volleyball event outside the capital, giving provincial fans a rare opportunity to witness top-tier professional players up close.

     

    “I guess it’s also good for the fans who can’t travel to Manila. They will get to experience the games that usually happen here in Manila. It’s nice to bring the event to Candon, and I think it’s going to be a fun event since it will be the first time it’s happening there,” Dy said.

     

    Meanwhile, the Cignal HD Spikers will also be well represented, with star players Vanie Gandler and Dawn Catindig welcoming the return of the All-Star spectacle. For them, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for players across different clubs to interact, compete together, and showcase a lighter side of the sport.

     

    Gandler believes the event mirrors the excitement typically associated with the All-Star festivities in the Philippine Basketball Association, where fans relish the chance to see players from rival teams share the same stage.

     

    “It’s going to be fun, of course, especially if we get to be part of it. We will have the chance to play with other players from different teams. For sure, it will be a fun experience, just like the PBA,” Gandler said.

     

    For Catindig, the All-Star event goes beyond competition and entertainment. She noted that it is also an opportunity for players to show appreciation to the fans who continue to support Philippine volleyball.

     

    “It’s a way of giving back to the fans – for them to see their volleyball idols. And maybe to show them a different side of us,” Catindig added.

     

    With the return of the All-Star festivities after several years, the showcase is expected to be one of the highlights of the PVL calendar this season. Bringing together some of the biggest names from the women’s and men’s professional leagues, the event promises an entertaining mix of high-level volleyball, fan engagement, and a celebratory atmosphere that honors the continued growth of the sport in the Philippines.

     

     

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  • “MVP candidate this season”: Ralf Ricafort, Kianna Dy laud Bella Belen following PVL clash

    “MVP candidate this season”: Ralf Ricafort, Kianna Dy laud Bella Belen following PVL clash

    If the early stretch of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference is any indication, PLDT is determined to prove that sustained success does not hinge on a single superstar.

     

    Instead, the High Speed Hitters are carving out an identity rooted in depth, balance, and defensive discipline — a formula that is beginning to pay dividends.

     

    On Thursday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, PLDT delivered another statement performance, dispatching Capital1 in four sets, 25-20, 25-16, 22-25, 25-17. The victory marked their second straight win to open the conference and reinforced the impression that their earlier dismantling of defending powerhouse Creamline was no mere early-season anomaly.

     

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    The victory underscored head coach Rald Ricafort’s emphasis on sustainability — a system built to withstand pressure and adapt mid-match rather than crumble when a single player is contained.

     

    Still, the night belonged in many ways to Capital1’s rising star, University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout Bella Belen.

     

    Belen exploded for a conference-best 28 points, showcasing her all-around arsenal that included 12 receptions. Through three games, she is averaging an eye-popping 25.67 points per outing — elite production by any standard, especially for a young player navigating the professional ranks.

     

    Her performance kept Capital1 competitive, particularly in the third set where her scoring burst sparked a rally that extended the match. Whether attacking from the wings, scoring from the back row, or contributing in out-of-system plays, Belen displayed the poise and versatility that have quickly made her one of the league’s most talked-about talents.

    Ricafort acknowledged that neutralizing Belen was a primary focus of PLDT’s game plan.

     

    “Yun nga eh. ‘Yun talaga nilook-forward namin today na i-try talaga bawasan si Bella. Pero siyempre, credit pa rin sa kanya dahil nandun talaga ‘yung skill eh. Kumpleto laro, passing, out-of-system. Parang nakarami siyang points backrow pa, so siya talaga ‘yun. Bigay namin ‘yun sa kanya,” Ricafort said in the post-match press conference.

     

    The veteran tactician even went a step further, openly labeling Belen as a legitimate Most Valuable Player (MVP) candidate.

     

    “Nung huling beses ko siya na-congratulate, Bella Bytsenko ang tawag ko sa kanya. Ganyan talaga magiging season niya. For sure, MVP candidate talaga siya this season,” he added.

     

    PLDT star Kim Kianna Dy echoed her coach’s sentiments, pointing to Belen’s evident growth and composure on the court.

     

    “I guess I feel like mas mature siya ngayon. Very calm na siya inside, dinadala na niya yung teammates niya. Ang likot ng bola niya. Madaming daan yung bola niya, so mahirap talagang i-block. Kita naman sa 28 points niya, we prepared for her also. Alam naman na Bella will be given a lot of balls. Ayun, 28 points nga siya,” Dy said.

     

    Dy’s assessment highlighted what makes Belen particularly dangerous — not just her scoring totals, but the unpredictability of her attacks and her ability to lead her team despite heavy defensive attention.

     

    le Belen’s heroics commanded attention, PLDT’s broader message was clear: they are building a team capable of contending deep into the conference.

     

     

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