PLDT fends off Cignal as Kim Kianna Dy returns to action in PVL

Kim Kianna Dy made her much-awaited return to action after more than two years as PLDT survived a third frame setback en route to a 25-20, 25-21, 20-25, 25-22 win in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday, January 28, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Dy entered the court, after 559 days of recovery from a knee injury, with the High Speed Hitters establishing a 16-7 lead in the fourth set.

PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort stated that although Dy wasn't scheduled to play that night, they did so in order to integrate her into the system. Even if she did not score, it was a big boost for the team. 

“We’re happy that little by little, she’s starting to get back on track, and we’re really taking it slow in incorporating her,” Ricafort said. “Her recovery process has been very challenging and complex, and we’ve been very patient.”

During the postgame interview, Dy broke down in tears as she reflected on her long recuperation journey and the help she had received along the way.

“Biggest change, I guess as a player, I’ve been more patient with myself because the journey of me being here right now wasn’t really easy. It’s been a hard year,” said Dy.

Savi Davison, who was hailed Player of the Game was a proud teammate to Dy as they shared the court for the first time.

“I’m just super proud of her. We always see her working hard. She races to practice after she goes to her 6:00 am workout so it’s finally coming together and I’m super proud of her for that,” said the Filipino-Canadian spiker who dropped 24 points, 12 excellent digs, and 10 excellent receptions for the High Speed Hitters.

Erika Santos and Majoy Baron backstopped Davison’s efforts as they finished with 15 and 10 markers, respectively.

PLDT strengthened its chances of making the playoffs by improving to 5-3. PLDT aims to build on this momentum when they face Farm Fresh on Tuesday, February 4.