From historic five-peat to Japan’s V. League: Leo Aringo joins Saitama Azalea

Fresh off an unprecedented five-peat championship run with the National University (NU) Bulldogs in the UAAP, Finals MVP and former captain Leo Aringo is set to embark on a new and exciting chapter in his volleyball career. The 20-year-old outside hitter has officially signed with Japan’s Saitama Azalea, marking his professional debut overseas in the 2025-2026 Japanese V. League season.

The announcement, made by National University on Tuesday, June 17, has sent ripples of excitement through the Philippine volleyball community. Aringo’s move to Japan comes after a stellar collegiate career where he played a pivotal role in the Bulldogs’ historic dominance, culminating in their fifth consecutive UAAP men’s volleyball title in Season 87.

Aringo’s final year with NU was nothing short of spectacular. He was the stabilizing force for a Bulldogs squad that faced its toughest Finals series yet, emerging as the Finals MVP after a grueling three-game battle against the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws. His championship-clinching spike in Game 3, which sealed the five-peat, is now etched into UAAP history. Beyond the highlight plays, Aringo consistently delivered, showcasing his all-around game with strong attacks, timely blocks, and crucial receptions.

“Fresh from winning his third career UAAP championship, finals MVP and former captain Leo Aringo is taking his talents to the Japanese V. League in the 2025-26 season after signing with Saitama Azalea,” NU proudly announced in a Facebook post. “A testament to the tried, tested Bulldog pride and programme.”

After clinching his third UAAP title and Finals MVP, former captain Leo Aringo is headed to Japan’s V.League Division II, signing with Saitama Azalea for the 2025–2026 season. pic.twitter.com/mETVVaXvmk

— Torey Canino (@tj_canino) June 17, 2025

Aringo joins an increasing number of Filipino volleyball stars making their mark in Japan’s V. League. He becomes the second NU Bulldog, following the trailblazing Bryan Bagunas, to venture into the highly competitive Japanese professional circuit. This trend underscores the growing recognition of Filipino talent on the international stage.

The Saitama Azalea finished second in their V. League regular season with a 21-7 record last season, before ultimately settling for a fourth-place finish. With Aringo’s addition, the team aims to further bolster their roster and climb higher in the league standings.

For Aringo, this move represents a significant step forward in his development as a player. The Japanese V. League is known for its high level of play, rigorous training, and disciplined approach to the game, all of which will undoubtedly contribute to Aringo’s growth.

His departure leaves a void in the NU lineup, but it also opens doors for other promising talents within the Bulldogs’ deep roster. Coach Dante Alinsunurin will now rely on players like Buds Buddin, Leo Ordiales, and Peng Taguibolos to carry on the legacy of excellence that Aringo helped build.

As Leo Aringo prepares to showcase his skills on a new international stage, Filipino volleyball fans will undoubtedly be cheering him on, eager to witness his continued success as he represents the country with his “Bulldog pride and program” in Japan.

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