Following her successful Japanese naturalization process, Jaja Santiago now has every bit of chance to become the first player with Filipino blood to see action in the Olympics.

At the sidelines, Taka Minowa is looking forward to seeing that dream come true -- seeing his wife don the national colors of his country, Japan.

Santiago, who now goes by the name Sachi Minowa, shared the development that she has recently obtained a Japanese passport shortly before the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. 

It’s only a matter of time before Santiago makes her debut for the Japanese volleyball team in international competitions. 

“[Her] naturalization process has been completed, but there are still a few procedures remaining. Moving forward, we primarily expect her to play for Japan and proudly represent the country under the Japan flag,” Minowa wrote on social media on Sunday, Aug. 18.  

Japan recently came up short of a gold medal in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) women’s tournament after the Hinotori Nippon bowed to Italy in the finals.

Still, it was the best finish for the Asian team in the competition as it eclipsed its previous fourth-place showing in 2021.

But the Japanese spikers couldn’t translate the same energy at the recent Paris Olympics, finishing ninth in a pool of 12 teams.

Minowa believes that Santiago’s addition to the Japanese national team would fill the gap that it needs for sustained success in the global stage. 

“After watching many matches at the Paris Olympics and comparing Japan with powerhouse nations, I realized that the gap in middle offense and blocking power is not something that can be easily closed. Considering that, I hope that her participation in the Japanese national team will play a significant role in driving changes in Japan's tactics and strategies,” Minowa said. 

By the time the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics rolls around, Santiago would be an active 32-year-old athlete.

Still, with Japan’s high quality level of living, competition and national team program, Santiago should be well enough and primed to make the historic appearance happen that would greatly benefit and impact Philippine volleyball. 

“Additionally, if she becomes the first Filipino volleyball player to compete in a world championship, it would be a source of immense pride for the Philippine volleyball community and would directly inspire local players,” Minowa said.

“I would be delighted if her contribution helps the Japanese women's national team become an even more beloved team on the global stage,” he added.