Kath Arado made her homecoming a memorable one as PLDT closed its 2026 PVL On Tour campaign with a 25-14, 26-24, 21-25, 25-20 victory over Akari on Saturday at the Mindanao Civic Center in Lanao Del Norte.
The High Speed Hitters finished the preseason tournament with a perfect 2-0 record after their scheduled match against ZUS Coffee on August 8 in Santiago City, Isabela, was canceled due to Tropical Depression Maymay.
Arado, who hails from Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, delivered a strong defensive performance in front of her home crowd, finishing with 19 excellent digs on 32 attempts and seven excellent receptions.
“Sayang yung Isabela na leg pero at least dito sa huling game namin for On Tour nakuha namin yung goal namin. Nag-improve kami coming from the game against Choco,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort.
PLDT appeared headed for a second-set win after Ivy Lacsina scored back-to-back points to give Akari set point at 24-22.
The High Speed Hitters, however, refused to let the set slip away.
Majoy Baron sparked the comeback with a quick attack before Kianna Dy leveled the score with an off-the-block hit. Savi Davison then put PLDT ahead before Eli Soyud sent her next attack long, allowing the High Speed Hitters to steal the set, 26-24.
Akari responded in the third, mounting a strong offensive push to extend the match and force a fourth set.
PLDT regained control in the final frame, building a 16-11 advantage before holding off the Chargers’ late rallies to secure the victory after two hours and 26 minutes.
Davison led the High Speed Hitters with 22 points on 19 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. She also contributed 13 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs.
Dy added nine points, while Mika Reyes, Alleiah Malaluan, Baron, and Jovy Prado finished with six points apiece.
Akari, meanwhile, ended its preseason campaign with a 1-2 record.
Faith Nisperos led the Chargers with 12 points, while Chen Tagaod added eight. Grethcel Soltones and Lacsina chipped in seven points each.
