Kianna makes family trip worth it

MANILA, Philippines — PLDT star Kianna Dy was grateful that her boyfriend, Gilas Pilipinas standout Dwight Ramos, and her family made the long trip from Manila to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur to celebrate with her on the eve of her 31st birthday.

The former UAAP Finals MVP made sure their seven-hour journey was worth it.

The crisp-spiking Dy was all business as she delivered a match-high 17 points – 16 off attacks – to power the High Speed Hitters to a 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 25-18 win over the shorthanded Choco Mucho Flying Titans at the Chavit Coliseum over the weekend.

The victory gave the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned franchise its first win in this short but sweet experimental conference, and was Dy’s way of thanking Ramos, her family, and the fans who cheered for her in the UNESCO-declared Heritage City.

“I really appreciate it because travelling here is not easy — it’s seven hours going here — so I really appreciate them watching and celebrating my birthday,” said Dy.

It wasn’t all Dy, though. PLDT coach Rald Ricafort was quick to praise his shock troopers off the bench for stepping up.

“Happy with the result and the performance of the players I pulled off from the bench,” said Ricafort.

One of those who shone brightest from the second unit was Alleiah Malaluan, who, despite still recovering from a shoulder injury, chipped in nine points.

Kiesha Bedonia and Jessey de Leon also made their presence felt with seven and five points, respectively.

Savi Davison saw limited action and still scattered 13 points in just three sets, but PLDT hardly needed to lean on her with the second unit holding its ground.