PVL: Leila Cruz leaves Capital1, transfers to PLDT

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The PLDT High Speed Hitters pulled off a buzzer-beating Premier Volleyball League offseason move after acquiring opposite spiker Leila Cruz from the Capital1 Solar Spikers on Aug. 12, 2026.

The No. 2 pick in the 2024 PVL draft spent two years with the Solar Spikers before joining the battle-tested PLDT squad, which is coming off a bronze medal campaign in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference.

Cruz’s departure came after the Solar Spikers secured the services of Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos following the Cignal Super Spikers’ leave of absence from the PVL several months ago.

The former De La Salle University stalwart and UAAP champion saw her playing time reduced last conference because of a series of injuries, preventing her from returning to optimal condition and matching her explosive debut form in 2024.

With Santos coming in, Cruz’s position as Capital1’s primary opposite spiker became uncertain, as the former Cignal hitter is coming off a stint with Alas Pilipinas and a PVL On Tour Most Valuable Player campaign.

Before leaving the Solar Spikers, Cruz accumulated 223 points on 185 successful attacks, 32 blocks and six service aces, along with 145 digs.

Cruz is now ready to embark on a new chapter and reinforce the stacked High Speed Hitters once the next PVL conference begins.

After playing for a developing squad, Cruz will have the chance to gain more experience with one of the PVL’s most consistent franchises.

Moreover, Cruz’s arrival at PLDT reunites her with her DLSU seniors Kim Fajardo, Kim Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron and Mika Reyes, as well as former UAAP teammate Alleiah Malaluan.

“AIM JUST GOT SHARPER,” PLDT posted on its official Facebook page.

“You can never be late to your own time to shine. Opposite hitter Leila Cruz joins the High Speed Hitters starting in the 2026-2027 PVL season! We are excited to see you at your best on the taraflex court! You got this and we gotchu!”