Two NU legends and MVPs, Sachi Minowa (Jaja Santiago) and Bella Belen, represent the past and future of National University volleyball—with Minowa proudly watching Belen make history.
From one National University legend to another, Sachi Minowa (also known as Jaja Santiago) couldn’t hide her pride as she watched Bella Belen close out her UAAP career in historic fashion.
Ever since UAAP Season 84—when Belen and her batch began rewriting the NU playbook—Minowa has kept a watchful eye on the Lady Bulldogs.
Having been a cornerstone of NU’s rise in women’s volleyball, Minowa found joy in seeing the next generation succeed, especially with stars like Alyssa Solomon and Belen.
“This girl is an epic girl. I mean, Belen is really Belen. Even nung nag-start siya dito sa UAAP, maganda na talaga 'yung pine-perform niya and ngayong last year niya. Iba 'yung dala niya talaga na leadership niya,” said Minowa.
As a former league MVP herself, Minowa rained praise on Belen, who became just the third player in UAAP history to earn the Most Valuable Player award three times in her career—a feat that cements her among the greats.
But more than just talent, it was Belen’s character and coachability that stood out to Minowa.
“Sobrang nakaka-proud and nakakatuwa na in her young age, maganda na 'yung performance niya and, napaka-down to earth. Parang she’s [a] very coachable player. Hindi imposible na makuha niya 'yung awards na 'yun. So I’m really proud of her,” she added.
From one MVP to another, Minowa’s words reflect not just admiration, but the enduring bond and legacy within the NU women’s volleyball program.
[ALSO READ: Jaja Santiago fawns over NU’s resilience in claiming UAAP Season 87 crown]
(With reports from Luisa Morales)