ANTIPOLO, Philippines – Majoy Baron was the flame that lit the match for PLDT on Saturday night as they defeated the unbeaten Creamline in five sets. The 6-foot middle blocker, who is well-known for her perseverance and adaptability, played a crucial part in the High Speed Hitters’ exciting 30-28, 25-21, 23-25, 18-25, 16-14 victory at the Ynares Center in the 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference. She drew on her long-standing bond with her former La Salle teammates.

Baron’s heroics in the last moments of the game put a stop to the Cool Smashers’ 19-game winning streak, giving PLDT a spectacular victory in the most recent round of this crucial season. However, the reuniting of a championship core that once ruled the UAAP was more significant than her individual accomplishment. The magic that Baron and her former Lady Archers teammates, Mika Reyes, Kim Fajardo, and Kianna Dy, had previously had during their championship days in Season 78 was rekindled as the match progressed.

Baron’s expertise and rapport with her former teammates were most evident in the pivotal fifth set. The tide shifted decisively in favor of the High Speed Hitters when Baron’s connection with Fajardo and Dy ignited a 4-0 run to knot the game at 9-all with PLDT behind 8-5. Savannah Davison completed the task and sealed the historic victory thanks to that push.

Baron reflected on the significance of having Fajardo and Dy back on the court alongside her, emphasizing the strong connection they share as teammates. As she recalled the key moments of the match, she noted that their presence added a sense of familiarity and confidence to her game. She expressed how their return impacted her performance, highlighting the bond they have built over time and the understanding they share on the court.

She acknowledged that their seamless transition into the high-pressure environment was a crucial factor in maintaining the team’s rhythm and stability. Their ability to quickly adapt and perform at a high level reassured her, reinforcing the trust they had developed through experience and training.

Baron also emphasized the importance of always being prepared for any situation, noting her readiness to step up whenever needed. Her confidence in her teammates and their ability to deliver under pressure played a significant role in their collective effort, ultimately contributing to the team’s overall performance and success in the match.

Fajardo demonstrated her leadership and court savvy when she joined Dy in the game. The middle blocker scored crucial points in back-to-back sets from Fajardo to Baron, and Dy’s crucial block on Creamline’s Jema Galanza further turned the tide of the match in PLDT’s favor.

Baron’s perseverance was on display throughout the game as she concluded with 15 points, 12 of which came from assaults and three from kill blocks. She was proud of the team’s overall effort, which showed tremendous passion and tenacity, rather than just her own performance.

She highlighted the commitment and tenacity that each player brought to the game and expressed immense delight in the team’s overall performance. The team’s unwavering perseverance was essential to their arduous victory over the defending champs. Both sides’ fortitude and resiliency were put to the test during the two-hour, 38-minute struggle. But in the end, the team’s victory was guaranteed by their ability to remain composed and make calculated plays.

She also emphasized the quality of the rallies and the overall play of both sides, highlighting the intense competition displayed throughout the game. The contest was defined by long exchanges and skillfully executed plays, and every point was earned. The team’s preparedness, tenacity, and unshakable dedication to achievement were all demonstrated by the victory.

In addition to being a noteworthy accomplishment, the victory demonstrated the team’s capacity to perform well under duress. Their performance showed a solid basis of cooperation and resolve, demonstrating that perseverance and solidarity are essential for defeating strong opponents.

With this incredible triumph, PLDT has established itself as a strong candidate for the All-Filipino Conference, demonstrating that they are capable of competing with the league’s top teams when everything falls into place.