Top PLDT execs Manuel V. Pangilinan, John Y. Palanca, and more pledge more support for this ‘tatak-MVP’ team

More power from the MVP Group: PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, alongside PLDT Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home John Y. Palanca, and First Vice President and Head of Sports for PLDT & Smart Jude Turcuato, personally meets with the PLDT High Speed Hitters to congratulate them on their first PVL championship – while promising more support for the hardworking team

After securing their first ever Premier Volleyball League (PVL) championship with an undefeated record and heading straight to the PVL Invitational Conference finals still on top of the standings, the PLDT High Speed Hitters are on cloud nine relishing their best season ever.

The High Speed Hitters emerged victorious against the stacked finals returnee Chery Tiggo Crossovers in a grueling five-set match. The Manuel V. Pangilinan-powered team won the PVL On Tour trophy off the heroics of first-time Finals MVP Mika Reyes, who exploded with 20 points including seven blocks. PLDT also paraded the stellar performances of libero-captain Kath Arado and middle blocker Majoy Baron who stood out as the conference’s Best Libero and Best Middle Blocker, respectively.

The victory marks a significant milestone for the team and PLDT, underscoring the organization’s commitment to excellence in the sport of volleyball. As the High Speed Hitters continue their winning streak to march directly to the PVL Invitational Conference finals ahead of the other teams, the journey to the PVL On Tour championship proved to be one paved with hard work, strategic plays, and most of all, team spirit that embodied the core value of “Pusong PLDT.”

“Sports is a metaphor for life,” said Manny V. Pangilinan, PLDT Chairman and CEO, and a noted champion of Philippine sports. “The PLDT High Speed Hitters showed the dedication, perseverance, and grit that many of us should strive to emulate. Thank you for inspiring all of us at PLDT.”

“The team’s chemistry, fueled by talent, hard work, shared vision, and a strong culture of unselfishness and accountability, ultimately led the High Speed hitters to their first championship. The values that PLDT shares,” added PLDT Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas, also a staunch supporter of local sports recently named as the country’s chef de mission to the 2028 LA Olympics.

“Being finally number one is a happy moment, but staying number one will require much more from you all. Congratulations to the team management, coaches, players, and staff! Thank you! You make the company proud.”

Looking up! The PLDT High Speed Hitters all smiles as they celebrate their championship at the PLDT office with PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, alongside PLDT Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home John Y. Palanca, and First Vice President and Head of Sports for PLDT & Smart Jude Turcuato

#PusongPLDT all the way. PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home John Y. Palanca with the newly crowned PVL champions in an intimate gathering at the PLDT office in Makati City

Reinforced commitment and support
PLDT Home has been a steadfast supporter of the High Speed Hitters, fueling their rise with unwavering support and resources. This championship win is not just a victory – it’s a testament to the partnership built on shared grit and a passion for excellence.

Rooted in ‘Pusong PLDT,’ the organization remains committed to backing the team’s journey, both on and off the court, as they aim for even greater heights. That same spirit powers PLDT’s broader mission to uplift Filipino athletes and champion homegrown talent.

"Sports has always had the power to unite Filipinos – and the High Speed Hitters’ championship is a shining example of that spirit in action," said John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home at PLDT.

"At PLDT Home, we are proud to be the digital bridge that connects every Filipino to their passion. Through our reliable connectivity, we bring the thrill of every spike, block, and victory straight to their screens, wherever they are. This victory isn’t just for the team; it’s a win for every Filipino volleyball fan who cheered with Pusong PLDT."

Hearts filled with gratitude. Following their PVL On Tour championship, the PLDT High Speed Hitters bond with PLDT employees supporting them through their PVL journey

Following their On Tour finish, the PLDT High Speed Hitters recently swept Kobe Shinwa University of Japan to become the only local team to have beaten the fierce foreign squad at the PVL Invitational Conference. Extending their zero-loss tally since July, the team looks to continue with their winning ways using the same formula at the conference finale this August 31.

“Looking back at our journey, I'm just so proud of this team. We faced so many challenges, but our Pusong PLDT – our heart, hard work, and discipline – helped us overcome them all,” said head coach Rald Ricafort.

“PLDT’s support was a major inspiration for us. It wasn't just about sponsorship; their leadership and belief in us were a true example of Pusong PLDT. We from the coaching team and management commit to continuously guiding this team. We will carry the same spirit with us and work even harder for future tournaments.”

Support the PLDT High Speed Hitters at the finals of the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference 2025 on August 31 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City. Follow the team’s journey by checking out their official social media pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Photo credits:
Event photos c/o PLDT Home
Game photos c/o Premier Volleyball League