The Cignal Super Spikers wasted no time setting the tone for its 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference campaign, sweeping Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-17, 25-14, 25-11, at the FilOil Centre.
More than just an opening-day win, the performance hinted at a Super Spikers side already operating with structure and confidence. Cignal dictated the pace from the opening set, leaning on aggressive serving and disciplined floor defense to keep the Highrisers out of rhythm throughout the match.
Tin Tiamzon led the way with 18 points on 10 attacks, 6 aces, and 2 blocks, while also posting 5 excellent receptions. Vanie Gandler followed with 14 points built on 12 attacks and 2 aces, and Erika Santos added 13 points on 11 attacks and 2 blocks.
Cignal’s control peaked in the third set, when it surged to a commanding 16-5 lead, effectively sealing the match early. Head coach Shaq delos Santos credited the team’s strong showing to the work put in during the offseason.
“I think ‘yung ano lang, ‘yung naging investment namin nung offseason. One thing din na naging advantage namin, ‘yung camp namin sa Japan,” said delos Santos, pointing to their overseas training as a key factor in the team’s sharp execution.
Cignal Not Satisfied as Tougher Challenges Loom
Despite the convincing win, the veteran coach stressed that Cignal is far from satisfied, especially with tougher opponents ahead.
“To be honest, nakita namin na nakakagalaw kami. Pipilitin talaga namin na mas mapaganda ‘yun,” he added. “Kasi siyempre, ‘yung mga susunod naming game, mas magiging intense, at siyempre lahat magpe-prepare nang matindi.”
For Galeries Tower, it was a difficult start to the conference. Erika Deloria was the lone Highriser in double figures with 10 points, all on attacks. Veteran opposite Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, making her debut with the team, finished with 5 points as Galeries Tower struggled to generate consistent offense.
Cignal now turns its attention to an early measuring-stick game against Choco Mucho on February 5 at 4:00 p.m., while Galeries Tower looks to bounce back against ZUS Coffee on February 7 at 4:00 p.m.
