Kim Kianna Dy had an extra spring in her step on the eve of her 31st birthday, powering PLDT to its first victory in the 2026 PVL On Tour Showdown on Saturday at the CHAVIT Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.
The veteran opposite spiker enjoyed plenty of support from the crowd, with her family making the more than seven-hour trip from Manila to celebrate her birthday weekend and cheer her on in person.
Among those in attendance were her mother, Bambi; sisters Kaila and Cheeni; and Nika, as well as boyfriend and Gilas Pilipinas standout Dwight Ramos, whose family traces its roots to Narvacan, Ilocos Sur.
“I really appreciate them because the travel here is not easy, and it takes seven hours going here, and they’re here to watch my game and celebrate my birthday tomorrow,” said Dy after the High Speed Hitters’ victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans.
(C) PVL Images
Dy delivered a match-high 17 points on 16 attacks and one block to lead PLDT to a 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18 triumph over Choco Mucho.
Savi Davison chipped in 13 points despite playing just three sets, while Mika Reyes and Majoy Baron contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Flying Titans, however, proved to be a tough challenge despite playing without stars Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure. Choco Mucho evened the match at one set apiece before pushing the third set into a tightly-contested, extended battle.
Despite the winning start, Dy believes PLDT still has plenty of room for improvement as it continues preparing for the 2026-27 PVL season.
The High Speed Hitters return to action on August 8 against ZUS Coffee in Santiago City, Isabela.
“It was really an intense game, one is to one talaga. And Choco Mucho mahirap talaga silang kalaban — buti na lang ‘yung mga pumasok talagang nag-perform. Obviously, we need to work on a lot of things for our next games. Pagbalik ng Manila, adjust ulit,” said the 5-foot-11 opposite spiker.
