High Speed Hitters Strengthen Lineup With Star Import and Rising Local Talents Ahead of PVL Reinforced Conference

The PLDT High Speed Hitters are charging into the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference with renewed energy and a roster built for victory.

Riding the momentum of back-to-back preseason championships in the PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference, PLDT is determined to turn last year’s heartbreak into a historic campaign.

After a 15-game winning streak came to an end against the Cignal Super Spikers, the team is refocused and stronger than ever. With a championship-minded roster, PLDT combines veteran leadership, international talent, and rising stars to create a formidable lineup.

Russian Import Anastasiia Bavykina Brings World-Class Experience

Topping the list of new additions is 6’2” Russian outside hitter Anastasiia Bavykina. The 33-year-old brings over 15 years of international experience across Russia, Europe, Asia, and the United States. Her arrival addresses crucial gaps for PLDT, providing height, offensive versatility, and a reliable blocking presence to bolster the team’s already impressive defense.

Bavykina teams up with Invitational Conference MVP Savi Davison to form one of the league’s most feared outside hitter duos. Coach Rald Ricafort praised her impact:

“Anastasiia’s receiving, blocking, serving, and defense skills complement the starters perfectly. We don’t need just another scoring machine. We need a veteran presence to hold the team together and elevate everyone’s performance,” he said.

Bavykina made a remarkable PVL debut against the Capital1 Solar Spikers, recording 10 spikes, 2 service aces, and 10 excellent receptions. She followed up with a conference-high 18 points against the Farm Fresh Foxies last weekend, signaling her immediate impact.

Young Local Talent Adds Depth and Agility

PLDT has also strengthened its local core with two rising stars. De La Salle University power hitter Alleiah Malaluan and Enderun College middle blocker Zenneth Perolino bring youthful energy, championship experience, and versatility to the roster.

Malaluan, a three-time UAAP seniors finalist, shared her mindset for the conference:

“Our goal is to become champions and build a stronger connection as a team. I aim to be a dependable teammate who can step up whenever needed,” she said.

Perolino, one of the first non-UAAP or NCAA players drafted into the PVL, embraced the transition to professional volleyball:

“As a rookie, there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain. The team and Coach Ricafort have been patient and supportive, helping me adapt to a new system and unlock my potential,” she said.

A Proven Core Rounds Out the Lineup

Bavykina, Malaluan, and Perolino join a seasoned nucleus featuring:

• Team captain-libero Kath Arado (PVL On Tour Best Libero, Invitational Conference Best Libero, and Finals MVP)
• Middle blockers Mika Reyes, Majoy Baron, and Dell Palomata
• Setter Kim Fajardo and opposite spiker Kianna Dy

This blend of veteran wisdom, youthful energy, and cohesive teamwork positions PLDT as a top contender. Currently leading Pool A with 3 wins and 1 loss, the High Speed Hitters are aiming for a memorable finish to the 2025 Reinforced Conference.

“Fans can expect our best every training session and game. This is a tough conference, but we’ll give our all to make our supporters proud,” said Ricafort.

Follow the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok to stay updated on their journey through the PVL Reinforced Conference 2025.