

NU’s Leo Aringo during the UAAP Seaosn 87 men’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Leo Aringo becomes the latest National University Bulldog to take his act to Japan after Bryan Bagunas.
UAAP five-peat champion NU men’s volleyball team on Tuesday announced that Aringo has signed with the Saitama Azalea in the 2025–26 V.League season.
READ: Overseas stint an option for Finals MVP Leo Aringo
“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,” the school wrote. “A testament to the tried, tested Bulldog pride and programme.”
Aringo led NU to a historic five consecutive championships, emerging as the Finals MVP after outlasting Far Eastern University before a record-breaking UAAP men’s volleyball Finals Game 3 crowd at Mall of Asia Arena.
The 6-foot-3 outside hitter finished 10th in scoring with 176 points off 157 attacks, 15 blocks, and four aces.
NU’s core remained stacked with Alas Pilipinas members Buds Buddin, Leo Ordiales, and Peng Taguibolos.