Sachi Minowa (Jaja Santiago) at the Pasig leg of VNL 2026. Kennedy Caacbay, ABS-CBN News
MANILA (UPDATED) — Jaja Santiago (Sachi Minowa) said that she is set to play in the United States.
Facing reporters at the sidelines of the Philippine stop of the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), Santiago said she’s trying to stay in condition as she gears up for another chapter of her volleyball career.
“I’m going to US next season,” Santiago confirmed Friday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
READ: Volleyball: Jaja Santiago signs with Denso Airybees in Japan
“Hulaan niyo na lang kung saan doon (sa US),” Santiago quipped. “I think next week, they will announce—the league—where I will play.”
“Right now, I’m working out with Coach Luis (de Mesa), kailangan kasi. And then, minsan, kaming dalawa ni Taka (Minowa). We’re gonna find place na makakapag-workout, makakapag-ball training ako kasi I need to be active kasi January pa ‘yung liga,” she added.
The 30-year-old middle blocker was accompanied by her husband, Taka Minowa, watching Japan against Czechia in Week 2 of the VNL presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.
She played for the Saitama Ageo Medics, Osaka Marvelous, and most recently, Denso Airybees in Japan.
The National U product said she will fly to the United States in November ahead of the tournament scheduled for January. "I’ll be there (US), November. Sobrang laki nung gap, so kailangan ko maghanap ng way para maging kondisyon pagdating no'n."