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A new PVL season always brings fresh storylines, but for the PLDT High Speed Hitters, this conference feels personal. After finishing fourth in the previous tournament, the team is entering the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference with something to prove.
Armed with lessons from a tough campaign, an intensive training camp in Japan, and a key roster boost, PLDT is no longer content with moral victories. They are chasing a championship.
A Statement Start in the PVL All-Filipino Conference
PLDT wasted no time setting the tone this season. The High Speed Hitters opened their campaign with a statement sweep of the multi-titled Creamline Cool Smashers, followed by a four-set win over the Bella Belen-led Capital1 Solar Spikers.
Those victories were not just about tallying points in the standings. They were a signal to the rest of the league that PLDT is serious about returning to the top tier of Philippine volleyball.
For fans who follow the PVL closely, beating a powerhouse like Creamline early in the conference is no small feat. It reflects both preparation and belief.
Turning Last Season’s Frustration Into Fuel
Falling short of a podium finish last conference left a mark on the team. But instead of dwelling on disappointment, the High Speed Hitters used it as motivation.
Head coach Rald Ricafort admitted that the previous season tested the squad. He shared that while they did not reach their ultimate goal, the experience became a learning opportunity. According to him, the team has put in serious work during the preseason to refine their system and push closer to their target this conference.
Team captain Kath Arado echoed that hunger. She explained that the desire to bounce back is strong within the group, especially after their productive training stint in Japan. With nearly every PVL team improving, Arado emphasized the importance of taking the conference one game at a time.
In a league as competitive as the PVL, that mindset could make all the difference.
What PLDT Learned From Japan
In preparation for the grind of the All-Filipino Conference, PLDT brought its training overseas. Their camp in Japan was not just about conditioning. It was about embracing a culture of discipline, speed, and technical precision.
Coach Ricafort observed that volleyball development in Japan begins early, with athletes from elementary to college showing remarkable consistency and discipline. That level of foundation inspired the High Speed Hitters to elevate their own standards, particularly in mental toughness and decision-making.
For Arado, the Japan experience reinforced a crucial lesson: winning is not about rushing plays. She admitted that in past games, the team sometimes forced the pace in their eagerness to close out matches. Moving forward, she believes it should start with her as captain by setting a controlled tempo that allows them to execute familiar systems effectively.
Filipino volleyball fans often admire power and intensity. But this new PLDT squad wants to prove that patience and discipline can be just as lethal.
Seth Rodriguez Adds Height and Edge
Another key development for PLDT is the addition of middle blocker Seth Rodriguez, formerly of the University of the East. Her arrival comes at an important time, especially with players like Dell Palomata seeing action overseas.
Rodriguez described herself as competitive and optimistic, traits she intends to bring to the team. She acknowledged that she is still adjusting to PLDT’s established system but credited her teammates for helping her adapt quickly.
Arado expressed confidence in Rodriguez’s impact, particularly in blocking and on-court competitiveness. According to the captain, Rodriguez is the type of player who gives her full effort every time she steps onto the floor.
In a conference where middle presence can dictate momentum, Rodriguez could be the missing piece that strengthens PLDT’s net defense.
A More Technical, Disciplined PLDT
Because of their Japan training and roster adjustments, fans should expect a more polished version of the High Speed Hitters this season.
Coach Ricafort shared that supporters will likely notice a more technical approach in skill execution. The goal is to play consistent, intelligent, and resilient volleyball throughout the conference.
Rodriguez also had a message for the fans, thanking them for welcoming her to the team and encouraging continued support in the upcoming games.
For a franchise that carries speed in its name, PLDT now aims to pair that quickness with structure and composure.
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The All-Filipino Conference is always one of the most anticipated stretches in Philippine volleyball. With powerhouse clubs, rising collegiate stars, and passionate fan bases, every match feels like a headline event.
For PLDT, this is more than just another campaign. It is a chance to redefine their identity and reestablish themselves as legitimate title contenders in the PVL.
If their early wins, Japan-learned discipline, and new roster chemistry are any indication, the High Speed Hitters are building something serious.
As fans, this is the perfect time to rally behind them. Follow their games, support the league, and witness whether this redemption arc turns into a championship run.