The PLDT High Speed Hitters are entering the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference with a stronger, deeper roster as they chase another championship after a dominant run in recent tournaments.
Coming off successful title campaigns in the PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference, PLDT looks to extend its winning culture behind a lineup reinforced by Russian import Anastasiia Bavykina and two young draft standouts, Alleiah Malaluan and Zenneth Perolino.
Bavykina, a 33-year-old outside hitter with 15 years of international experience, is expected to bring both stability and veteran presence to the squad. Standing 6-foot-2, she adds height and versatility on both offense and defense. The Russian spiker has already made her mark in the league, turning in double-digit performances in her first two outings, including an 18-point showing against Farm Fresh.
Head coach Rald Ricafort said the addition of Bavykina fills an important need for balance rather than pure scoring.
“We don’t need another scoring machine. We need a veteran who could hold the team together, and a stable presence that can support the team’s high-level performance,” Ricafort explained.
Before acquiring Bavykina, PLDT also secured two promising young talents in the PVL Draft: De La Salle University’s Alleiah Malaluan, known for her powerful attacks, and Enderun College’s Zenneth Perolino, an agile middle blocker who brings youthful energy to the lineup.
Malaluan, a UAAP champion with La Salle, said she hopes to contribute both on and off the court.
“Our goal is to become champions and build a stronger connection with one another. For me, a successful campaign means reaching our goals – both individually and as a team,” she said.
For Perolino, playing in the PVL is both a challenge and an opportunity.
“It’s a good kind of pressure,” she shared. ”As a rookie, I know there is nothing to lose but more to gain. Playing in a new system and coaching style has helped me unlock more of my potential.”
The new recruits will join PLDT’s established core led by team captain and libero Kath Arado, who earned both Best Libero and Finals MVP honors in the previous conference. The team also features standout middle blockers Mika Reyes, Majoy Baron, and Dell Palomata, alongside veteran setter Kim Fajardo and opposite spiker Kianna Dy.
With a blend of experience, depth, and renewed motivation, the High Speed Hitters are among the early favorites this conference. They currently hold a 3-1 record in Pool A as they aim to sustain their strong momentum.
