MANILA, Philippines – The most successful run in the franchise’s history is now being enjoyed by the PLDT High Speed Hitters. The team has changed the club’s history by going from being consistent contenders to real championship favorites thanks to a battle-tested lineup, a reinvigorated system, and a newfound resiliency advantage.

The change started well before the current season officially began. The team was able to sign some of the league’s most accomplished and seasoned sportsmen thanks to a daring recruitment drive. The squad was immediately strengthened with the addition of Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, and Kim Fajardo, who brought championship experience and the type of on-court leadership that had been lacking in previous years. In addition to them, Savi Davison’s explosive scoring presence added another degree of unpredictability to the offense, providing PLDT with a potent blend of firepower and balance.

However, putting together star power was just one aspect of the situation. In recent years, the High Speed Hitters had suffered heartbreak after heartbreak. They experienced the agony of a reverse sweep in the quarterfinals that followed their heartbreaking semifinal loss in one conference. Every setback served as a reminder of the discrepancy between skill and ability. But rather than disintegrating, the group turned its frustrations into a drive to succeed by using those setbacks as fuel.

During the PVL On Tour, when PLDT’s ascent crystallized into silverware, that resolve came to life. There was little question about the team’s status as one of the league’s best as they dominated the competition and played with discipline. In addition to being a team effort, their success was also emphasized by individual genius. A pillar of support in the center, Mika Reyes won MVP of the Finals. With her flawless timing, Majoy Baron anchored the net and became known as one of the best blockers in the competition. While Kim Fajardo skillfully planned the attack and ensured that every hitter found their rhythm, libero Kath Arado displayed defensive prowess.

PLDT just got stronger after that. Their depth and maturity were further demonstrated at the Invitational Conference. The idea that this squad was no longer an underdog but rather a powerhouse was strengthened by an incredible 10-0 winning streak that was interspersed with consecutive straight-set wins. The High Speed Hitters demonstrated the depth of a team that could fill in gaps and still produce results, even in the face of injury setbacks and the departure of important players for national team duty.

Coach Rald Ricafort’s tactical genius, which created discipline and confidence in his team, has been largely credited with this metamorphosis. The squad has never relied on a single scorer because of its system, which has optimized the capabilities of every player—from stars to role players. Rather, PLDT developed into a multifaceted organization that benefited from unity, flexibility, and trust. Once viewed as a weakness, the bench turned into a weapon, and each substitution kept the momentum going rather than slowing it down.

The most remarkable aspect of PLDT’s ascent has been the emergence of a shared identity. They have adopted the idea of shared responsibility, which states that when one fails, another takes over. They have been able to maintain consistency and emotional stability during stressful times because of their unity. The days when their campaign was characterized by late-game collapses are long gone. The High Speed Hitters have the poise of a team that feels they belong at the top these days.

More than just victories and titles, the current run is a testament to perseverance and improvement. This club has become one of the league’s most dangerous due to years of heartache and near misses. They now appear to be a cohesive team with both short-term goals and long-term vision, rather than a club looking for direction.

As the finals draw near, the High Speed Hitters have demonstrated that their success is the result of careful preparation, bold hiring, and unwavering faith in their path. Their character, their strength, and their current form have all been transformed from their depth.

What started out as a dream season is now the starting point for something bigger. For PLDT, this historic run is about establishing themselves as one of the league’s new standard-bearers, not just about pursuing a trophy. The High Speed Hitters are also just getting started, based on their recent performances.