Jaja Santiago announced on Saturday, August 17, that she finally earned her Japanese citizenship.
In an Instagram post, the volleyball star acknowleged that some people may not understand her decision to change nationality from Filipino to Japanese.
However, she stressed that she took the step in order to achieve her dreams.
"Changing nationality was never an easy decision. It took a lot of sacrifices to make my dreams come true. Some people may support my decision, and some may not understand my decision," Santiago said in Japanese.
"As we progress in our careers, we grow older. Also, I don't know how long I can continue to be a professional volleyball player. What I know now is that I will do my best for my family, for my dreams, for the people who believe in me and support me, believing in the talent God has given me," she added.
Santiago, the wife of Japanese coach Taka Minowa, will now go by the name Sachi Minowa.
Prior to becoming a Japanese national, Santiago had stints with the Saitama Ageo Medics, and she currently plays for the JT Marvelous.
Last March, Santiago joined the training camp of the Japanese women's volleyball team, and the Japan Volleyball Association even included her in the national team pool for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France.
