The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) lauded Jaja Santiago’s recent success overseas as the first Filipino player to win a volleyball title outside of the country.
“On behalf of the entire leadership of PNVF, I extend my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations for your achievement,” said PNVF President Tats Suzara in a letter to Santiago.
“Let this be an important milestone that will bring even much more to your already outstanding career.”
The 6-foot-5 Santiago helped the Saitama Ageo Medics capture the Japanese V.Cup on Sunday, March 28, by contributing 11 points on nine kills and two blocks.
Saitama beat NEC, 26-24, 20-25, 25-21, 25-17, to sweep the tournament. They won all five elimination matches in the group stage and ousted JR Marvelous, 25-21, 25-22, 18-25, 18-25, 15-13, in the semifinals.
Prior to becoming an import in the top-tier Japanese league, Santiago played for PLDT Home Ultera and Foton in the Philippine Superliga and has won the 2018 UAAP Most Valuable Player in her final collegiate season with National University.