From Anime Lessons to Team Leadership: Our Finance Lead DeeJay

Join us for a chat with DeeJay, our Finance Operations Lead, who keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes at Arigato Travel. Originally from the Philippines, DeeJay holds an MBA and handles our day-to-day financial operations with steady, approachable expertise. In this interview, he shares how early lessons from his favorite anime shaped his view on leadership and community, showing a passion for Japan that started long before joining our team. Outside of work, you’ll usually find him volunteering with local church groups or diving into a new subject. Read on to get to know the person behind the numbers!

Hi DeeJay! Could you start by introducing yourself and sharing a little about your background and your role as Finance Operations Lead at Arigato Travel?

Hello! I have been working in the finance field for more than 10 years now, spanning accounts payable, financial reporting, analysis, and project management. Currently, I am leading our small finance team, handling daily financial operations such as processing bills to be paid to our suppliers and making sure we are able to collect payments from our guests and travel partners. I am in charge of reviewing our financial transactions and, consequently, providing financial reports so that we can use them for making strategic decisions.

What first sparked your love for Japan from the Philippines, and how does that passion influence your work and daily life?

When I was a kid, there was a local TV show that featured Japan and the different cultures there. I think it was called Oh Tokyo by Ellen Nishiumi. This made me very interested in Japanese culture and made me look forward to going there. This passion also became more evident when I started watching different anime such as Digimon, Dragon Ball Z, Fushigi Yuugi, and more. Because of this, working for Arigato Travel made me more motivated to do my best, knowing that somehow I am working for the country that I am really passionate about.

You mentioned your leadership skills were influenced by anime. I can relate, since I’m a big fan of Luffy’s selfless leadership in One Piece. Can you recall a specific scene, character, or lesson from a show that inspired your approach to leading a team or tackling a challenge?

Yes, I recall it all started in Digimon. Taichi Yagami led the Chosen Children, and he was, I think, around 11 years old back then, and I was the same age. I thought that he could lead at that age, so why can’t I? I saw how he valued friendship and the mission at the same time. I learned from him that you can be goal-driven but also value your team at the same time. There was also this great sacrifice that he made for his friends, and I realized how important it is to be selfless and courageous when doing your tasks! Oh, what a great show!

You have a strong educational background in finance. What made you decide to apply those skills in the travel industry, specifically with a company focused on local Japanese culture and cuisine?

Just like what I mentioned, when I learned that the company focuses on Japan, there was no second thought; I wanted this. I knew, and I had set my eyes on this. I knew that my experience and background would be a valuable asset to the business, and on the other hand, this would also help me understand Japanese culture firsthand.

What’s the most rewarding part of managing the financial side of a company that is all about creating joyful, unforgettable cultural experiences for our guests?

The most rewarding part of this is when you see that the records are finally getting better and when you are able to provide financial reports that can be useful for decision-making. It’s great that you can convert numbers and tell a story that even non-financial people will be able to understand and use for making strategies.

On to the more personal stuff, how are things in the Philippines, and could you tell us a little about your daily life outside of work?

Well, life here is very different and difficult because of the rampant corruption of our government leaders. However, we have to make do with what we have. We have learned to be resilient and responsible for our own lives. Outside of work, I usually volunteer in our church community called SFC (Singles For Christ). Currently, I am quite busy preparing for our wedding this November 2025.

Congratulations on getting married, by the way! Also, you mentioned you volunteer as a leader with local community church groups. How has this commitment to community and leadership outside of work shaped your perspective inside the office and within your personal life?

I learned from this experience that you should know how to value people. More than the person, you should know their stories. I learned from John Maxwell that “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” So I always apply this principle. You may lead them in day-to-day operations, but you can be even more effective if they know that you care about them.

The Philippines is often said to be a popular destination for Japanese and, of course, people worldwide. Do you have any recommendations or insight for those looking to visit?

It depends on what you prefer. If you prefer the countryside but don’t like the beach, I would recommend the old city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur. If you want to experience the wonderful beaches of the country, you should go to either Boracay or Panglao Beach in Bohol. Another popular destination is the Underground River in Palawan. There are so many wonderful places here to explore that your phone memory would not be enough to capture them all.

If you had a whole weekend free, how would you spend it exploring Japan, focusing on the everyday culture of locals rather than the major tourist spots?

Oh, I will definitely go to Akihabara and indulge in all the anime culture, followed by exploring local cuisine and trying different ramen!

Lastly, as a key member of one of Japan’s leading travel companies, what advice would you share with our readers for visiting new countries and immersing themselves in diverse cultures, whether in Japan, the Philippines, or elsewhere?

Always keep an open mind and a learning mindset. You may know a lot of things, but when going to a different country or meeting different people, you should always assume that you know nothing. It is better to enter a place as an empty canvas and let that place color your world.

It was a pleasure chatting with you, DeeJay. Your passion for culture, leadership lessons from anime, and commitment to community are key to your essential behind-the-scenes role in keeping Arigato Travel running smoothly. Your dedication and expert knowledge ensure we can continue sharing the local stories and culture we all love. Thank you for sharing your insights and what makes you a genuine, friendly face on our team!

Read more about DeeJay on:

Check his profile on our Team Page: https://arigatotravel.com/about-us/our-team

Featured Photo Credit: DeeJay

Inspired by DeeJay’s passion for Japanese culture and delicious local cuisine? Head over to our Food Tours Page to discover delicious culinary walks across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond with our expert local guides!