Thrown into the spotlight, seldom-used spiker Kiesha Bedonia delivered a breakout performance and proved she belongs.
Stepping up in the absence of key players, Bedonia powered PLDT to a 25-18, 25-21, 28-26 sweep of Farm Fresh to jumpstart their 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour campaign on Tuesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
With Savannah Davison still in Canada, rookie Alleiah Malaluan unavailable, and regulars Erika Santos and Fiola Ceballos no longer with the squad, the 22-year-old Bedonia made the most of her rare start.
She finished with 14 points on 10 attacks, two blocks, and two service aces with eight excellent digs and seven excellent receptions in a complete all-around effort.
Bedonia shared that she had been mentally and physically preparing for this moment for weeks — heeding her coaches’ advice to stay ready amid the roster shakeup.
“‘Nung una pa lang po, pagbalik namin nasabihan na ako ni coach nun eh na i-prepare ko lang ‘yung sarili ko mentally and physically po,” said Bedonia.
“Kasi maraming umalis sa amin, parang ayun, double din ‘yung training ko, doble rin ‘yung inano ko sa physical and mental ko so ‘yun lang po. Sinunod ko lang din po sila coach, ‘yung mga coaches ko lalo na sa passing, defense, and offense po,” she added.
(C) PVL Images
Despite her composed showing, the former V-League Collegiate Challenge Best Outside Hitter admitted the adjustment wasn’t easy.
The bigger workload and pressure tested her resolve, but she took the challenge head-on.
“Sobrang hirap po lalo na po sa mentally. Tuwing gabi po as in, lalo na these past few days po, ang inaaral ko po talaga ‘yung mga plays nila. Parang sobrang hirap kasi kinabukasan, i-prepare mo ‘yung sarili mo sa mga gagawin mo inside the court,” Bedonia admitted.
Her diligence paid off.
Playing with confidence and poise, Bedonia anchored the High Speed Hitters in stretches — particularly in the tight third set where Farm Fresh threatened to extend the match.
Beyond the win, Bedonia believes the PVL On Tour is a chance not just for her, but for PLDT’s bench players to prove their worth.
“Para sa’kin naman po is sobrang laking bagay kasi mas lalong ma-boost namin ‘yung confidence namin lalo na po ‘yung mga sub lang po,” she said.
“Parang binigyan din po kami ng chance para mapakita po kung ano ‘yung meron kami at sa team.”
