Behind the bronze-medal finish of the PLDT High Speed Hitters in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference are stories of sacrifice, love, and unwavering support from the women who shaped the athletes long before they stepped onto the professional volleyball stage.
Fresh from their long-awaited return to the podium, members of the High Speed Hitters paid tribute this Mother’s Day to the mothers who continue to inspire their grit, discipline, and resilience both on and off the court.
Savi Davison reflects on unconditional support
For Filipino-Canadian star Savi Davison, success was never defined by medals or individual recognition at home.
The PVL On Tour Most Valuable Player shared that her mother never pressured her to chase accolades, but instead reminded her that giving her best would always be enough.
From accompanying her to early-morning training sessions to helping her navigate the emotional demands of professional volleyball, Davison credits her mother as the steady presence behind her rise as one of PLDT’s most reliable scorers.
“My mom already knows how much she means to me — she’s not only my mother, but also my best friend,” Davison shared. “I’m incredibly proud to be so much like her.”
Jessey de Leon celebrates from afar
For opposite hitter Jessey de Leon, this year’s Mother’s Day celebration will happen through a screen.
Currently outside the Philippines, de Leon said she plans to spend the occasion with her mother through a video call, proving that distance cannot weaken meaningful family connections.
She described her mother’s support as quiet but constant — the kind that allowed her to grow while staying grounded amid the pressures of professional sports.
“I’m so grateful for her and for everything she’s sacrificed for our family,” de Leon said. “She’s shown me what it really means to care for her children.”
Kath Arado honors her mother’s sacrifices
Team captain and Best Libero awardee Kath Arado also shared a deeply personal story rooted in sacrifice and perseverance.
While Arado competes in Manila, her family remains in Iligan City, where her mother once made the difficult decision to work abroad as a caregiver to support the family.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without her,” Arado said. “I thank her for all the sacrifices, love, and support she’s given me and my younger siblings.”
To mark Mother’s Day, Arado arranged a surprise delivery of flowers and cake to Iligan as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude.
Alleiah Malaluan sends love home to Batangas
Outside hitter Alleiah Malaluan also took time to honor the woman she calls her “number one supporter.”
As the team enters the offseason, Malaluan said her mother remains one of the biggest influences in her life and career, serving as her source of encouragement and guidance since childhood.
This Mother’s Day, she plans to send flowers home to Batangas along with a heartfelt message of appreciation.
“Mommy, thank you for everything you’ve done for me,” Malaluan said. “Know that I am really grateful to call you my mom. I love you.”
Stronger connections beyond the game
While the High Speed Hitters celebrate their bronze-medal finish this season, the team believes the true foundation of their success lies in the people supporting them behind the scenes.
Whether through personal reunions or high-definition video calls powered by PLDT Home Fiber, the players continue to cherish the strong connections that keep families close despite distance.
Fans may follow the PLDT High Speed Hitters on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments from the team’s continuing journey in Philippine volleyball.
