Kath Arado had a perfect homecoming in Lanao del Norte during the PVL On Tour Showdown last Saturday, but the province proved to be more than just a return for the Iligan City pride.
People from across Lanao del Norte trooped to the Mindanao Civic Center in Tubod not only to support their hometown heroes, but also to shower all four competing teams with love and respect.
For Arado, that perfectly summed up how supportive the people of the province are when it comes to sports.
“Actually, no doubt naman na talaga ‘yun. In-expect ko na talaga ‘yun na ito naman talagang Lanao. Lalo na yung Iligan, very supportive talaga sila,” said the decorated libero, reflecting on the heartwarming reception they received.
“Lalo na dito, sabik talaga ‘yung mga tao na makakakita ng mga idols nila kasi first time nga ’to. So alam ko talaga, nilo-look forward nila ‘to. So hindi na ako nagulat na ganito ‘yung crowd. Ganito kasipag silang mag-cheer sa dalawang team. Actually, sa apat nga eh. So thankful lang din ako kasi nandito ako sa home court.”
(C) PVL Images
Arado’s PLDT edged Akari, 25-14, 26-24, 21-25, 25-20, while Farm Fresh swept Nxled, 25-23, 25-13, 25-22, in the first game of the day.
The six-time PVL Best Libero even had her family in the stands, giving her an added boost during the match. Her younger sibling, who also plays volleyball, was among those watching.
“Sobra, sobra, sobrang motivated talaga kasi bihira lang kapag sa Manila kasi bihira lang nakakanood sila. And ‘yun nga, gusto ko talagang makita ang kapatid ko, lalo na ‘yung sumunod sa akin, kasi volleyball player din siya. Gusto ko lang din siyang ma-inspire lagi sa paglalaro na kahit nakakapagod,” shared the High Speed Hitters captain.
It was a packed weekend for the participating teams, which began with visits to different high schools and colleges across the province on Thursday for a series of meet-and-greet activities.
During the PVL’s first-ever stop in Lanao del Norte, the teams were welcomed with the warmth and enthusiasm of the local community, making the packed schedule worthwhile.
“I mean, nakakapagod siya, pero nakakataba rin ang puso kasi ito na rin yung give back namin dun sa mga fans na hindi naman lagi sila nakakanood on live, pero nagchi-cheer sa amin on TV,” said Arado.
