PLDT merges with Smart, rejoins Superliga

Comebacking PLDT spices up the competition in the Philippine Superliga’s All-Filipino Conference as it joins the mix in the eighth aspirant starting Oct. 30.

Last seen in PSL action in 2014, PLDT sets out to return with a bang as it merges with Smart to engage reigning champion Petron, F2 Logistics, Foton, Generika-Ayala, Sta. Lucia Realty, Cocolife and sister team Cignal HD in a battle royale for top honors.

Veteran coach Roger Gorayeb calls the shots for the returnees with national team mainstays Jasmine Nabor and Gretchel Soltones as well as Aiko Urdas, Alyssa Eroa, Angel Cayuna, Czarina Carandang, Jerili Malabanan, Jorelle Singh and Celine Domingo at his disposal.

“The players of PLDT have been together for quite some time. We expect them to hit the ground running and give the big guns of the PSL a serious run for their money,” said PSL chairman Philip Ella Juico as he announces PLDT’s return.

PLDT is a pioneer at the PSL, finishing fifth in the inaugural conference then reaching the semifinals of the Grand Prix with American Kaylee Manns and Savannah Noyes as reinforcements. It saw action in the 2014 All-Filipino before transferring to the V-League and its successor, Premier Volleyball League.

“After almost five years, PLDT is finally coming home,” said Juico. “We’re very glad to have them back into our family. We look forward to see them compete against the best club teams in the country and offer intense action and high level of competition.”