PVL: Kath Arado helps PLDT win in front of family, hometown crowd

Kath Arado takes selfies with Lanao Del Norte fans during PLDT’s game against Akari in the PVL On Tour.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Kath Arado’s heart was full after playing in front of her family from Iligan as PLDT gave the crowd at Mindanao Civic Center Gymnasium a thrilling treat in a rare PVL On Tour stop in Tubod, Lanao Del Norte.

Arado received flowers and warm hugs from her family after PLDT completed a perfect PVL On Tour campaign by fending off Akari, 25-14, 26-24, 21-25, 25-20, on Saturday.

The six-time PVL Best Libero had 19 digs, as PLDT had a two-game sweep of its preseason capped in her home province.

READ: Kath Arado comes back to where her volleyball dreams started

“Definitely, I’m very motivated. It’s not often that people outside Manila get to watch us play live. I also really wanted my younger sibling to see me, especially because they’re also a volleyball player. I want to inspire them through the way I play,” said Arado in Filipino. “Even when it’s tiring. I’m thankful that my family has always been supportive, whether I’m here or in Manila. Being close to home is just extra motivation.”

More than winning their game, Arado was eager to give back to fans in Lanao del Norte, who rarely get a chance to watch professional volleyball games.

Kath Arado celebrates with PLDT teammate Savi Davison.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“I had no doubt that the crowd here would be supportive, especially because Iligan is known for being very passionate about volleyball. They also know the La Salle players because Ate Mika (Reyes) and the others have played here before in an exhibition game,” said Arado.

“People here were really excited to see their idols, especially since this is their first time getting to watch them live. I wasn’t surprised by how big the crowd was or how loudly they cheered for both teams. I’m just really thankful that I get to play in front of my home crowd.”

READ: PVL Finals MVP Kath Arado pulls off rare feat

After a convincing preseason, Arado and the High Speed Hitters shift their focus to the Invitational Conference starting on August 31.

“Patience is really important because every tournament, you can see how much every team improves. We can’t stay at the same level or keep doing the same things. Coach always tells us that we need to bring something new and different every game. We can’t be predictable because teams are scouting us well now,” Arado said.

“Everyone wants to get better and win, so we just have to trust the process. We’re training together, learning a lot every day, and it can’t just be for one week. We need to keep improving every day.”