Justine Jazareno is taking a leave of absence from Akari in the Premier Volleyball League to focus on her pregnancy, VP Global Management announced on Thursday afternoon.
“We’re excited to share that our volleyball star, Ms. Justine Jazareno, is eagerly anticipating the joys of motherhood. She has made the decision to take a leave of absence from the game to focus on her forthcoming bundle of joy,” the statement read.
The 23-year-old incoming sophomore had opted to skip her remaining playing years at De La Salle University to join the Chargers.
She has only played one campaign for the team in the Second All-Filipino Conference.
Jazareno thanked Akari for being supportive and understanding as she looks forward to her first child with long-time partner Jhonas Mandado.
“We thank the Akari Chargers for fully expressing their continued support as she embarks on this beautiful journey. As we eagerly await Justine’s triumphant return to the Akari Chargers, let us send her and her longtime partner Jhonas our warmest wishes as they embark on this new and exciting chapter of their lives.”
With Jazareno expected to miss almost the entire season, Bang Pineda is expected to take on a bigger role on the defensive end for the Chargers.
