PLDT-Chery Tiggo tiff kicks off PVL hostilities

LAOAG, Philippines —  After a long silence due to COVID-19, Philippine volleyball action makes a much-anticipated return with the professional debut of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) today in nearby Bacarra of this northern province.

Creamline, which topped the league’s last conference nearly two years ago, will try to show why it’s the heavy favorite to win the PVL Open Conference as it clashes with newcomer Sta. Lucia Realty in the main game of a heavy triple bill at 7 p.m. at the PCV Socio-Civic and Cultural Center.

It will be preceded by intriguing duels pitting PLDT Home Fibr versus Chery Tiggo at 1 p.m., and Cignal HD opposite Perlas at 3 p.m.

Meanwhile, Petro Gazz tackles Black Mamba Army at 3 p.m. and Choco Mucho squares off with Bali Pure at 6 p.m. tomorrow.

“Understatement din talaga yung pag sinabi naming super, super excited kami,” said Creamline captain Alyssa Valdez, who remains the face of Philippine volleyball.

“Iba rin yung sacrifices na binigay ng mga atleta, bawat staff, the PVL itself so we’re just really looking forward to starting this tournament again and hopefully injury-free and lahat talaga healthy mula simula hanggang dulo ng tournament,” she added.

Jia Morado, Valdez’ teammate and recipient of multiple Best Setter awards, is just as happy to get the opportunity to play again.

“Finally, after ilang beses na siya na-move, it’s now just a day away so we’re really looking forward to play,” said Morado.