If you’re a volleyball fan, you know the excitement of discovering a breakout star — and in PLDT’s recent mismatch against Chery Tiggo at the PVL Invitational, Alleiah Malaluan gave us just that. The rookie didn’t just dip her toes into pro volleyball; she cannonballed onto the court in spectacular fashion.
Let’s take a closer look at how the newest addition to the High Speed Hitters made her premiere one to remember.
A Debut That Turned Heads
Fresh off her stint with the national team, Alas Pilipinas, Malaluan entered the PVL stage already riding high. Drafted ninth by PLDT, the former La Salle standout didn’t waste time showing everyone why she was the pick.
Coming off the bench late in the first set, Malaluan immediately made her presence felt. She rattled off points with confidence, helping close out the set and setting the tone for the rest of the match. By the final whistle, she had logged 11 points, 13 digs, and nine receptions — numbers that scream, “Watch out, PVL!”
“I had mixed feelings… super excited and kind of nervous,” Malaluan shared with a grin. “But I told myself, ‘Just get in there, hit the ball, and go for it.’”
Chemistry in Progress, Talent in Full Swing
Malaluan’s performance was doubly impressive considering she’s still learning the ropes with her new team. Balancing national team commitments with club training isn’t for the faint of heart, but she’s managed to juggle both like a pro.
“I made sure to still join team practices even while with Alas. I watched game footage, memorized the plays, and soaked up every bit of advice from the coaches,” she said.
That drive and dedication? You can see it in every move she makes.
Stepping Up While the Stars Sit Down
Interestingly, PLDT approached this match with its eyes on the bigger picture. Head coach Rald Ricafort chose to rest some of the team’s top guns — including Kim Fajardo, Savi Davison, and Kianna Dy — focusing instead on player wellness and development.
“We wanted to take care of our key players’ health,” Ricafort explained. “And at the same time, it was the perfect opportunity to let players like Alleiah show what they’ve got.”
It paid off. Big time.
Veterans Still Proved Clutch
While the spotlight was rightfully on Malaluan, the team’s seasoned core also played a crucial role. Down 18-20 in the third set? No problem.
Finals MVP Mika Reyes came through with back-to-back quick hits. Jessey De Leon, who started her first game that day, added clutch points. And Angge Alcantara iced the set — and the match — with pinpoint serving and 20 excellent sets.
In three quick sets, PLDT closed the match: 25-16, 25-14, 25-20.
What This Game Means for PLDT (and the League)
This wasn’t just another win. Coming off their breakthrough PVL On Tour championship — the first title in franchise history — this commanding performance signals two things:
- The team’s depth isn’t just good — it’s championship caliber.
- Alleiah Malaluan isn’t just a promising rookie — she might be the spark that takes this team to a whole new level.
Already 2-0 in the Invitational, with their earlier semifinal win vs. Creamline carrying over, PLDT is looking more lethal than ever.
As for Chery Tiggo? They drop to 1-1 and will need to regroup, especially with setter Jasmine Nabor out and their top scorer held to just eight points.
Final Thoughts: Look Out, PVL — There’s a New Star in Town
Every now and then, a player comes along and makes you sit up and say, “Whoa, who is that?”
That’s what Malaluan did — and if this is just the beginning, PLDT fans (and volleyball fans in general) have a lot to be excited about.
Whether you’re a diehard High Speed Hitters fan or just love watching rising stars take flight, keep your eyes on Alleiah. Something tells us this is just the start of a very exciting journey.
🏐 Stay updated with the 2025 PVL Invitational Schedule
📸 Image source: Marlo Cueto / Inquirer.net
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