Edson Jorge Souza de Brito, head coach of the national team, disclosed that the wing spiker, who is 27 years old, is planning to obtain Japanese citizenship, making her eligible to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
As a result, Santiago is no longer expected to represent the Philippines in the following significant international competitions, such as the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia in May.
The Brazilian tactician emphasized that the 6-foot-5 Santiago representing Japan at the Olympics would be a magnificent occasion, but it will be a significant blow for Philippine volleyball.
Since 2018, Santiago has been a member of the Ageo Medics in the Japanese V. League.
She admitted two years ago that her club had offered her the chance to become a naturalized player, which opened the door for her to compete in the Olympics.
Santiago's engagement with Taka Minowa, the assistant coach of the Japanese national women's volleyball team, makes her quest to represent Japan as a player simpler.
Dindin Manabat affirmed her sister's readiness to apply for Japanese citizenship in a different interview.
The 2021 SEA Games in Hanoi were Santiago's final competition with the Philippine squad, and the Filipinas came in fourth.
But the opportunity to compete for the consistently strong Olympic contender is just too alluring to pass up.
However, a date for Santiago's formal naturalization as a Japanese citizen is yet to be seen.
According to the rules of the International Volleyball Federation, a player who has previously represented another nation can only join the national team of a new federation once two years have passed.
This two-year period begins on the day the FIVB receives the full application file with all needed documentation (and has been paid the administrative fee).
If Santiago is chosen for Japan's national squad, she will only be able to represent Japan if she meets this condition.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)
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