Jaja Santiago finally achieved her long-time dream of acquiring Japanese citizenship, paving the way for her to play for the Hinotori Nippon. She will now also take the name Sachi Minowa.
After years of dedication and sacrifice, Jaja Santiago officially obtained her Japanese citizenship, which she announced on social media on Saturday, August 17.
Santiago began her volleyball career in Japan in 2019. Now playing for JT Marvelous, the 6-foot-5 middle blocker has established herself as a critical player in Japanese volleyball.
[ALSO READ: Jaja Santiago officially no. 1 spiker and blocker in Japan's V1]
With her newly-acquired citizenship, Santiago is poised to expand her influence by joining the Japanese women’s national volleyball team.
The Hinotori Nippon finished 9th place in Paris 2024 after failing to make it to the quarterfinals. The Japan women's team is also at a critical crossroads following the retirement of star hitter and team captain Sarina Koga.
[ALSO READ: Sarina Koga wins her farewell game as Japan sweeps Kenya to end Paris 2024 campaign]
Santiago shared that this decision was far from easy, but she made it to pursue a dream she has long cherished.
“Changing my nationality was never an easy decision. I sacrificed a lot to make my dream come true,” Santiago wrote in her post in Japanese.
“Some people support my decision, some people don’t understand it. But this is for my dream,” she added.
Santiago also expressed her deep gratitude for those who supported her throughout this journey.
“First, I am grateful to God for the opportunity and blessing of making this significant decision in my life,” she said. “Second, I am thankful to my husband, Taka Minowa, and my entire family. They have continued to support me throughout this challenging process.”
Santiago also expressed appreciation for her home club in the Philippines, Chery Tiggo, and Tats Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, for their steadfast support.
She further acknowledged the Japan Volleyball Association and JT Marvelous for playing a crucial role in her journey.
“Without their help, taking on this significant challenge and playing in the top league with focus would not have been easy,” Santiago noted.
Additionally, Santiago thanked the JLRC for helping her learn Japanese.
"Their support was essential in helping me pass the N4 exam, and I am grateful for their patience and understanding despite my busy schedule."
[ALSO READ: What Jaja Santiago does in her downtime shows her genuine dedication to playing in Japan]
Despite beginning her new life as a full-fledged Japanese citizen, Santiago reaffirmed once more her Filipino roots.
"Though I have now acquired Japanese citizenship, my heart, blood, mind, and soul will always be Filipino, born in the Philippines. I will never forget that," said Santiago.
"My name is Alyja Daphne Santiago, and I am now Sachi Minowa. I hope you will continue to support me. Thank you, everyone!," she concluded.