Alleiah Malaluan, who was selected ninth overall by PLDT, was hailed ‘Star of the Night’ in the PVL Rookie Draft 2025.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Alleiah Malaluan shone the brightest as the Star of the Night in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, dazzling the red carpet clad in a stunning black gown as she joined her dream team PLDT on Sunday at Novotel.

After four UAAP seasons with La Salle, Malaluan realized her dream with the team she manifested as the High Speed Hitters selected her as the ninth overall pick, joining her fellow ex Lady Spikers Kianna Dy and Majoy Baron on the stage.

READ: No surprise as Bella Belen picked first in PVL Draft 2025

Alleiah Malaluan looks forward to joining PLDT. #PVLDraft2025 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/zuLmRuRULK

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) June 8, 2025

“Honestly, I’m really grateful and I truly manifested joining PLDT. This is my dream team. I’m just so happy and out of words right now,” said Malaluan in Filipino.

Malaluan, who grew up under the system and rich history of La Salle coach Ramil De Jesus, will have Dy, Baron, Kim Fajardo, and Mika Reyes guiding her as she writes a new chapter in her volleyball career playing for coach Rald Ricafort.

“It’s a big help that I’ll be with my La Salle ates. The sisterhood is there, so I know I’ll feel more comfortable and I’ll be okay with the team,” she said.

Malaluan, who played in three UAAP finals including a championship in Season 85, is a good addition to a High Speed Hitters squad that let go of Fiola Ceballos and Erika Santos.

READ: PVL: Alleiah Malaluan eager for next chapter outside La Salle

Her energy and added firepower will add depth to the Savi Davison-led roster, which fell short of reaching the All-Filipino Conference semifinals.

Malaluan is also raring to play with Filipino-Canadian sensation Davison, whom she looks up to after La Salle’s series of tune-up games with PLDT.

“Back when I was still in La Salle, we had tune-up games with them and I already saw her play. I really looked forward to playing with her. She’s actually one of the players I idolize in the PVL,” Malaluan said.