When the PLDT High Speed Hitters picked Angge Alcantara in the inaugural PVL draft last July, few could have predicted the pivotal role she’d play just months later. As a backup setter for Adamson University in the UAAP, Alcantara wasn’t a headliner. Her selection by PLDT was strategic, with the team’s sights set on developing a player who had potential to shine when the moment demanded.
In her debut during the Reinforced Conference, however, Alcantara saw limited court time, appearing in only 12 sets across ten games. With Kim Fajardo commanding the setter position, Alcantara mostly observed, waiting for her opportunity. That chance came sooner than expected as Fajardo underwent knee surgery during the offseason, leaving PLDT’s setter spot vacant just before the start of the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference. Head coach Rald Ricafort had a decision to make, and he decided to place his trust in Alcantara, launching her into a starting role against the Nxled Chameleons.
And Alcantara did not disappoint. The 5-foot-5 setter, a magna cum laude graduate, guided PLDT to a triumphant 25-15, 25-17, 22-25, 25-22 victory in their conference opener. Her skillful play netted her 13 excellent sets and three points, earning her player of the game honors.
“Siyempre nagpapasalamat po ako sa tiwala ni coach sa akin. Yun, in-embrace ko lang din yung role ko at focus lang talaga,” shared the 23-year-old. "Wala namang choice. Tinanggap ko lang. Bukal naman sa loob ko and inisip ko na rin na it's my time na rin para mag-step up."
To bolster their lineup, PLDT also signed setter Angelica Legacion. However, it was Alcantara who secured the starting role—a decision that proved rewarding. Ricafort emphasized that Alcantara’s promotion had been part of PLDT’s plan since her draft day, seeing her potential even when her role was limited.
“Ano lang, siguro from the draft, di naman kami kumuha ng parang addition lang,” Ricafort explained. “Alam namin yung roles na ifu-fulfill ng mga kinukuha namin. Happy kami na nakasimula nang maganda si Angge. Hopefully maging consistent all throughout."
Alcantara’s presence not only steadied PLDT’s play but also facilitated a balanced attack. Five players reached double figures, led by Savi Davison’s 19 points. Erika Santos added 15, Majoy Baron tallied 14, Fiola Ceballos chipped in 13, and Dell Palomata rounded out the group with 10 points.
It’s clear that Alcantara is making the most of her opportunity, and her performance hints at a promising trajectory.
