Kim Kianna Dy admits struggles against Sisi Rondina in PLDT’s win

The PLDT High Speed Hitters have opened their 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign in dominant fashion, compiling an impressive 7–1 record to sit atop the standings early in the tournament. With a blend of veteran leadership and disciplined system play, PLDT has quickly established itself as one of the teams to beat in this conference.

The High Speed Hitters sustained their strong run in their most recent outing, overcoming the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in four sets, 23–25, 25–21, 25–19, 25–19, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Saturday, March 14. After dropping a tightly contested opening set, PLDT showed composure and resilience, making key adjustments on both ends of the floor to take control of the match and secure the win.

Despite the victory, PLDT star Kianna Dy acknowledged the challenge posed by one of the league’s most explosive players, Sisi Rondina. A former PVL Most Valuable Player, Rondina once again proved why she remains one of the most feared attackers in the league, finishing with 23 points built on 20 attacks and three service aces.

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Dy admitted that Rondina’s offensive firepower initially caught them off guard, forcing PLDT to regroup and make in-game adjustments after the opening set.

Kim Kianna Dy acknowledged the strong attacking presence of Sisi Rondina and the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, saying the PLDT High Speed Hitters had to adjust defensively to handle their offensive pressure in the PVL All-Filipino Conference. l Via Rogelio Nicolas III pic.twitter.com/Nwrk39hHzr

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“Kasi nung first set talaga wala akong makapa kay Sisi. As in ang taas, ang lakas. So really had to adjust, kasi kung hindi kami makaka-adjust, medyo baka mag-uba ‘yung results,” Dy said in the postmatch press conference.

After struggling to contain Rondina early, the High Speed Hitters tightened their defensive schemes, showing improved timing on their blocks and better floor coverage. Their adjustments paid off as they limited Rondina’s efficiency in the latter sets while maintaining consistent scoring on their end.

Head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized that facing a player of Rondina’s caliber inevitably comes with challenges. He noted that the key lies not in completely stopping such a high-level scorer, but in staying patient, disciplined, and committed to the team’s system.

“Yun na yun, bibigay mo talaga yung mga hindi maabot, yung mga sobrang lakas. Pero more on talaga sa patience ng naba-block. Yun, at yun naman ang ibibigay namin sa kanya, kaya tinake na lang namin yung mga pwedeng kunin at siguraduhing hindi mawawala sa syatem na gusto namin para sa kanya,” Ricafort added.

PLDT’s ability to weather early pressure and execute adjustments underscores the maturity and cohesion within the squad. Their balanced attack and defensive discipline have been central to their success so far, allowing them to respond effectively against top-tier competition.

As the All-Filipino Conference progresses, the High Speed Hitters will aim to sustain their momentum and hold on to the top spot, with tougher matchups expected ahead. If their current form is any indication, PLDT appears well-equipped to remain a strong contender deep into the tournament.

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