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Former National University star Jaja Santiago showing support for the Lady Bulldogs against Far Eastern University in UAAP Season 86 Final Four on May 8, 2024. Photo by Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News
MANILA – Don't expect Jaja Santiago to play for the bronze-seeking Chery Tiggo Crossovers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
The star middle blocker, who has an ongoing naturalization bid for a Japanese citizenship, said does not want to take a risk that might compromise the process, but she will be on the sidelines of her PVL team.
"Makikita niyo ko do’n [sa battle for third on Thursday] but not playing because I’m in the process na [of naturalization sa Japan]. It’s hard to risk. I can play, but it’s hard to risk kasi nasa process na ko," Santiago told reporters.
The former National University standout got her call up for the Japanese national volleyball team March this year after a spectacular showing in the Japan V.League with JT Marvelous.
READ: Jaja Santiago to train with Japan national volleyball team
Santiago also revealed that she also does not know where exactly she is in the naturalization process, but PNVF president Tats Suzara is helping her.
"Actually, walang nakakaalam kung nasaan na siya. But it's on the process. Hopefully ma-approve. Sir Tats [Suzara] is helping me though."
Still, suiting up for Chery Tiggo is still a "what if" for Santiago due to its growing traction in the country –– and even UAAP.
"That's one of the reasons why I want to play sa Chery [Tiggo] again. Because of the fans. Not only in the PVL, but also sa UAAP. When I watch replays of any team in the UAAP, I see the crowd na. 'Wow. Ito na pala ang crowd sa Pilipinas,'" she said.
"Noong ako naglalaro sa NU Lady Bulldogs, 'yung supporters, bilang mo lang. Ngayon, nakakatuwa, nakakataba ng puso na maglaro and mag-inspire ng mga 'di lang mga matatanda pati mga bata rin na gusto maglaro ng volleyball," Santiago went further.
Santiago was also seen with the NU players celebrate after clinching the last Finals spot in Season 86, and even gave her "NU baby" Alyssa Solomon some tips.
READ: UAAP: National U dismisses FEU for 3rd straight Finals appearance
The former PVL MVP also commended the Lady Bulldogs for a job well done.
"They really worked as a team today, and talagang ginusto nilang manalo," she said.
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