Jaja Santiago to Rejoin Creamline for PVL Invitational and Reinforced Conferences Before US Move

Sachi Minowa, formerly known as Jaja Santiago, is set to reunite with Alyssa Valdez as she joins the Creamline Cool Smashers for the upcoming Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational and Reinforced Conferences later this year. The announcement was first made by Creamline star Michele Gumabao on social media and subsequently confirmed by the team, sparking excitement among Philippine volleyball fans.

Minowa, who became a naturalized Japanese citizen two years ago following her marriage to Japanese coach Taka Minowa, will only be with Creamline for a brief stint. This temporary return to the PVL precedes her commitment to the San Francisco Signal in the United States’ League One Volleyball (LOVB) Pro, where she is scheduled to begin playing in January 2027.

The 30-year-old middle blocker, standing 6-foot-5, and Valdez share a long history together. They were teammates during their high school years at the University of Santo Tomas and later played alongside each other for PLDT in the Shakey’s V-League, the predecessor of the PVL, where they won two championships. Their reunion at Creamline marks a significant moment for both players as they aim to chase another title together.

Minowa’s return to the PVL is highly anticipated, especially since her last appearance in the league was five years ago with the now-defunct Chery Tiggo Crossover. During that inaugural professional season, Minowa led Chery Tiggo to a championship victory in the COVID-era bubble held in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, notably defeating Valdez and the Cool Smashers in the finals.

Following her stint with Chery Tiggo, Minowa embarked on an extensive career in Japan’s volleyball leagues. From 2018 to 2023, she played for Ageo Medics, then moved to JT Marvelous from 2023 to 2025, and most recently suited up for Denso Airybees in the 2025-2026 season. Her time in Japan solidified her reputation as one of the country’s top middle blockers and allowed her to compete at a high level internationally.

This brief return to the PVL will allow Minowa to stay active and maintain her competitive edge before transitioning to the United States to join the LOVB. The league is set to start in January 2027, and Minowa’s signing with the San Francisco Signal represents the next chapter in her international volleyball career.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Minowa’s presence will bolster Creamline’s roster, especially alongside Valdez, as they prepare for the PVL Invitational and Reinforced Conferences. This reunion not only rekindles a successful partnership but also highlights Minowa’s continued influence in Philippine volleyball despite her international commitments.