Akari libero Justine Jazareno is taking a volleyball hiatus to take on a different challenge.

Jazareno's management, VP Global, confirmed her pregnancy in an official statement on Thursday.

The 23-year-old defense specialist will take a leave of absence in the Chargers' campaign in the Premier Volleyball League as she prepares to welcome her first child with long-time partner Jhonas.

"We're excited 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," VP Global said.

"We thank the Akari Chargers for fully expressing their continued support as she embarks on this beautiful journey," the management added.

"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."

The former De La Salle University standout joined Akari last year in the 2^nd All-Filipino Conference shortly after helping the Lady Spikers conquer the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85.

Jazareno decided to forego her last playing eligibility in the collegiate ranks to turn pro to help her family, following the path taken by her La Salle teammate Fifi Sharma.

She averaged 2.95 digs per set in her debut conference with the Chargers.

Veteran libero Bang Pineda will take care of Akari's floor defense in Jazareno's absence.