BEFORE Jaja Santiago got a grip on her new life in Japan, this Japanese lady helped her navigate through the language barrier in the country.
Jaja's kindness, work ethic
'Junko', a Tokyo-based communications and marketing professional, served as the Filipina volleyball star's translator from 2018 to 2020 in her first three seasons with Japan V.League club, Ageo Medics.
While they remained connected through socials, Junko shared she would never forget the 27-year old's remarkable work ethic.
"She's a real hard worker, I have been watching her everyday and she was never lazy on practices. Now, she's [making] a big impact in V.League and I am so proud of her," Junko told SPIN.ph.
Currently, Santiago, who plays for JT Marvelous, is still in the process of acquiring her Japanese citizenship after marriage to coach Taka Minowa of her former team.
While at it, Junko also bared that among the Filipino words Jaja taught her, she remembers the endearment term 'kuya'.
"I remember a Tagalog word Jaja used say when she's talking to Taka, 'kuya', it means older brother," Junko continued.
Apart from hard working, Junko describes Santiago as kind and funny.
She added: "I miss her, and I would like to see her again. We kept our connection, we message each other from time to time."
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