Even without three of its aces, PLDT showed no signs of slowing down, cruising past Chery Tiggo with a commanding 25-16, 25-14, 25-18 sweep to open its 2025 Premier Volleyball League Invitational campaign Thursday at the Philsports Arena.

The High Speed Hitters rested Savannah Davison, Kianna Dy, and Kim Fajardo—key figures in their PVL On Tour title win over the Crossovers just last Sunday—but still displayed poise and depth to improve to 2-0 and extend their winning streak to nine straight matches dating back to the preseason.

One of the brightest sparks came from rookie Alleiah Malaluan, who impressed off the bench in her professional debut with 11 points, 13 excellent digs, and nine receptions, nearly finishing with a triple-double in the one-hour, 25-minute contest.

Down by two late in the third set, 18-20, PLDT unleashed a decisive 6-0 closing run behind Malaluan, Mika Reyes, Angge Alcantara, and Jessey De Leon to secure the sweep.

“’Yun ’yung goal going to this game, na i-prioritize ’yung health ng players—sila Kim, si Kianna, actually si Sav, pinagbihis lang,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort, emphasizing the importance of recovery after a grueling preseason stretch.

“Ang mas naging goal ay pangalagaan ‘yung sa kanila, saka magbigay ulit ng opportunity sa mga second unit. So at least, isa sa mga naging reinforcement namin ‘yung matagal na naming inaantay [Alleiah Malaluan]. Nakapag-perform naman,” he added.

Majoy Baron also delivered with 10 points on eight attacks and two blocks, while De Leon and Reyes chipped in nine and eight, respectively. Alcantara seized her opportunity as well, tallying 20 excellent sets and five points—including two clutch service aces—while Kath Arado anchored the defense with 23 excellent digs and seven receptions.

The High Speed Hitters look to keep their hot streak alive when they face Cignal on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the same venue.

Meanwhile, the Crossovers, who dragged PLDT to five sets in their PVL On Tour gold medal duel, slipped to 1-1. No player reached double digits, with Cess Robles scoring eight, while Ara Galang and Shaya Adorador added six apiece.

The lone bright spot was the return of Jennifer Nierva from her Alas Pilipinas stint, as she finished with 18 excellent digs and nine receptions.

Chery Tiggo hopes to bounce back against defending champion Creamline on Saturday at 6:30 p.m.