MANILA, Philippines — Jaja Santiago, now known as Sachi Minowa, is set to take her talents to the United States, eyeing a groundbreaking stint as the first homegrown Filipino to compete in American professional volleyball.
The 6-foot-5 middle blocker revealed she will fly to the US in November to begin preparations for her new club, with the season slated to open in January 2027.
“I’m heading to the US next season. Just guess where I’ll be playing there. I think they’ll announce the league where I’ll play next week,” Santiago said, expressing excitement while watching Japan battle the Czech Republic in the Volleyball Nations League at the PhilSports Arena.
As she awaits her next chapter, the 30-year-old standout acknowledged the challenge of staying in peak form during the long break before her US campaign begins.
“Right now, I’m training with Coach Luis because I have to. Sometimes it’s just me and Taka (Minowa). We’re looking for a place where I can work out and do proper ball training,” she shared.
“I need to stay active since the league won’t start until January. I’ll be flying to the US in November, so there’s a huge time gap. I need to make sure I’m in shape by the time I arrive.”
Despite receiving multiple offers, Santiago remains uncertain about a return to the Premier Volleyball League, prioritizing rest and personal time before committing to any local stint.
“I am still thinking. What I told Taka is that I want to rest. I am not sure right now, but if ever and if my schedule permits… when I’m back in the Philippines, I want to spend time with my family and maybe travel with Taka. So we’re looking to see if our schedule will click,” she said.
“But who knows, right?” she added, leaving the door open.
Santiago has built an impressive career overseas since moving to Japan in 2018, emerging as one of the top middle blockers in the world. She captured a league title with Osaka Marvelous in 2024 and earned multiple individual honors, including Best Blocker (2021–2022), Best Middle Blocker (2022–2023), and Best Spiker (2023–2024).
Now, with a new challenge ahead in the United States, Santiago is poised to break new ground once again—this time on one of volleyball’s biggest professional stages.