Here’s the fifth installment of my Middle East series. Last July 2024, I joined the Meet Up event of my fellow DPP (Department of Professional Practice) professionals from KPMG MESAC (Middle East, South Asia, and Caucasus and Central Asia). There are a lot of positive words that I can link to Qatar – organized, elegant, luxurious, diverse, respectful.
Table of Contents
What you need to know about Qatar
- It occupies the Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East; it shares its sole land border with Saudi Arabia to the south, with the rest of its territory surrounded by the Persian Gulf.
- The Gulf of Bahrain, an inlet of the Persian Gulf, separates Qatar from nearby Bahrain.
- The country has expatriates making up nearly 90% of the entire population in Qatar.
- The official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR).
- Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among service staff.
- Islabm is the state religion, and its influence is reflected in many aspects of daily life and culture.
- Qatar is a monarchy, ruled by the Al Thani family. since Mohammed bin Thani signed an agreement with Britain in 1868 that recognised its separate status. Following Ottoman rule, Qatar became a British protectorate in 1916 and gained independence in 1971.
- The country’s main airport, Hamad International Airport (HIA), is often ranked among the best airports in the world.
- The economy is largely driven by oil and natural gas, though sectors like finance, construction, tourism, and aviation are also significant.
- In 2022, Qatar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the FIFA World Cup, marking a major milestone.
- The country has a desert climate, with very hot summers and mild, pleasant winters.
- The weekend in Qatar falls on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday being the start of the work week.
- Pliny the Elder, a Roman writer, documented the earliest account pertaining to the inhabitants of the peninsula around the mid-first century AD, referring to them as the Catharrei, a designation that may have derived from the name of a prominent local settlement. Eventually, after several variations—”Katr”, “Kattar” and “Guttur”—the modern derivative Qatar was adopted as the country’s name.
- Al Jazeera is a main television network headquartered in Doha. Al Jazeera initially launched in 1996 as an Arabic news and current affairs satellite TV channel of the same name and has since expanded into a global network of several speciality TV channels.
- Qatar’s capital city is Doha.
What you need to know about Doha
- According to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment of Qatar, the name “Doha” originated from the Arabic term dohat, meaning “roundness”—a reference to the rounded bays surrounding the area’s coastline.
- Doha is highly urbanized.
- Doha has a hot desert climate (with long, extremely hot summers and short, mild to warm winters. The average high temperatures between May and September surpass 38 °C (100 °F) and often approach 45 °C (113 °F).
- The city is home to Education City, a massive academic hub hosting international university branches and cultural institutions.
- The Doha Metro offers a clean, efficient way to travel around the city, connecting major attractions and districts.
Transportation in Doha
Taxis
Mowasalat, Qatar’s state-owned transport company, operates all taxis under the Karwa brand. You’ll usually find taxi stands near malls and shopping centers. Fares start at 10 QAR (25 QAR from the airport), and most taxis are sedans like Toyota Camrys and Škoda Octavias. At the airport, many taxis are Ford Freestars.
Public bus
The main bus station is in the Souqs area of downtown Doha, with routes connecting to all major towns in Qatar. Mowasalat runs around 50 bus routes, starting as early as 4 AM and ending around 11 PM. Three of these routes go to key stops and end at Hamad International Airport.
Some buses run on compressed natural gas (CNG), making Qatar the first in the region to launch eco-friendly buses. Mowasalat also operates over 1,800 school buses for public schools across the country.
West Bay shuttle network
The Ministry of Transport launched a shuttle service in West Bay to reduce traffic in the busy business district. Operated by Mowasalat, it offers a convenient option for both tourists and residents. The shuttle runs on a single route from 6 AM to 9 PM, with buses every 15 minutes. It started as a free service with two lines (red and blue), but now runs as a paid service on one combined route. The goal was to ease parking and congestion in an area filled with ministries, corporate offices, hotels, embassies, and sports clubs. Landmarks along the route include the Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex, Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), Dafna Towers, the Ministry of Justice, Ashghal buildings, Sheraton Grand Doha, City Center Mall, the General Post Office, and several government ministry towers.
Doha Tourist bus network
Doha Bus is a privately operated hop-on, hop-off sightseeing service that began in 2013. Using a fleet of double-decker buses, it offers a flexible and convenient way to explore Doha’s main attractions. The route covers key landmarks such as Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl-Qatar, the Doha Corniche, City Center Mall, Lusail Marina, the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), and the Sheraton Grand Doha. It’s a great option for visitors who want to experience the city’s highlights at their own pace without the hassle of navigating public transport.
Doha Metro
The Doha Metro is a state-of-the-art, fully automated rail network that offers a swift and efficient way to navigate Qatar’s capital. The system comprises three primary lines:
- Red Line: Extends from Al Wakra in the south to Lusail QNB in the north, with key stops including Hamad International Airport T1, Msheireb, and West Bay.
- Green Line: Runs from Al Riffa (near Mall of Qatar) in the west to Al Mansoura in the east, passing through notable stations like Education City, Qatar National Library, and Msheireb.
- Gold Line: Connects Ras Bu Abboud in the east to Al Aziziyah (near Villaggio Mall) in the west, with significant stops such as the National Museum, Msheireb, and Sport City.
All three lines intersect at Msheireb Station, serving as the central hub for seamless transfers between lines.
The Doha Metro offers affordable and straightforward fare options:
- Standard Class: A single journey costs QR 2, with a daily cap of QR 6, allowing unlimited travel within that day.
- Goldclub Class: For a more premium experience, a single journey is priced at QR 10, with a daily cap of QR 30.
Passengers can choose between two types of travel cards:
- Standard Travel Card: Available for a one-time purchase of QR 10, this reusable card can be topped up as needed.
- Goldclub Travel Card: Priced at QR 100, this card grants access to the Goldclub class and is also rechargeable.
These travel cards can be obtained at self-service Travel Card Vending Machines located in all Doha Metro stations.
Additionally, Qatar Rail offers a mobile application that includes interactive metro maps, real-time updates, and journey planning tools. You can download the app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
For further details and updates, visit the Qatar Rail official website.
Lusail LRT
The Lusail Light Rail Transit (LRT) is a modern tram system developed to serve the rapidly growing city of Lusail, just north of Doha. Designed to complement the Doha Metro, the LRT connects major districts within Lusail, including residential areas, commercial zones, entertainment hubs, and key landmarks like Lusail Stadium and Place Vendôme Mall. The network features four lines—Orange, Purple, Pink, and Turquoise—interlinked through a combination of underground and above-ground stations. The LRT connects seamlessly with the Doha Metro’s Red Line at Lusail station, allowing smooth transfers between systems. Trains are air-conditioned, driverless, and equipped with modern amenities, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly option for getting around Lusail. The LRT is part of Qatar’s vision to promote sustainable urban transport and reduce car dependency in its new smart city.
West Bay Tram
The West Bay Tram is a modern, driverless tram system designed to improve mobility within Doha’s West Bay area, one of the city’s busiest business and commercial districts. Operated by Qatar Rail, the tram system is directly connected to the Doha Metro’s Red Line via West Bay QIC and DECC (Doha Exhibition and Convention Center) stations, allowing easy transfers between the tram and the metro. The network operates on a loop system with multiple stops covering key locations such as Al Funduq Street, The Gate Mall, Tornado Tower, and several major hotels and office buildings. It’s built to reduce traffic congestion and parking challenges in the area while offering a clean and efficient transport solution for residents, office workers, and visitors alike. The trams are sleek, air-conditioned, and run at regular intervals throughout the day.
Visa
Qatar has streamlined its visa application process with the Hayya platform, a comprehensive digital service facilitating various visa categories for travelers. The platform is accessible via the Hayya website or the “Hayya to Qatar” mobile app.
When I tried going to Qatar in 2022, it was challenging as that was the time of the FIFA World Cup. However, after that event, everything went smooth. In 2024, it took me just minutes to obtain my eVisa. The eVisa is available to nationals of countries that do not qualify for visa-free entry into Qatar. Additionally, residents of GCC countries and certain nationalities holding valid visas or residence permits from Schengen countries, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand may also be eligible. It’s essential to verify the specific requirements from Hayya website before applying. Most tourist visas processed through the Hayya platform cost QAR 100 (approximately USD 27).
Hayya platform
The Hayya platform has evolved from being just a World Cup entry permit system into a comprehensive travel and visitor services hub for Qatar.
Accommodation Booking
- Book hotels or register a host family or friend’s home directly through the platform
- View a list of approved hotels and rates
Travel Planning
- Get arrival information, including:
- Entry requirements
- Airport guides
- Customs regulations
- View airport-to-city transportation options
Transport Integration
- Access information about the Doha Metro, buses, and tram services
- Link with event-specific transport plans
- Check shuttle schedules and park & ride services
Event Access & Registration
- For special events like football matches, concerts, and cultural programs, Hayya may act as a ticket verification and entry management tool
- Users can register for events and sometimes even get bundled visa and access privileges
Host Registration
- Residents in Qatar can invite and host visitors via the platform
- Hosts can register their property and share official accommodation confirmation with guests
Document Hub
- Store and access your Hayya Entry Permit, passport details, and booking confirmations all in one place
- Useful for both immigration and travel purposes
Where to stay
Located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown, Park Hyatt Doha is a five-star hotel known for its refined luxury and calm atmosphere. Upon arrival, guests pass through a security check at the main entrance before entering the building. Unlike many hotels, the reception is not on the ground floor—you’ll take a dedicated elevator up to a quiet and elegant lobby where check-in takes place. The hotel offers several standout dining options, including Sora, a rooftop Japanese restaurant with panoramic city views; Anis, a bright café serving healthy bites and coffee; and Opus, where Qatari and French cuisines come together in a relaxed setting. The property also features fully serviced apartments, ideal for long-term guests or anyone seeking extra space with the comforts of home.
What to do
Msheireb Downtown
Msheireb Downtown is not your typical flashy city center. It feels thoughtfully designed, clean, and surprisingly calm for being right in the middle of everything. The architecture is modern but still reflects Qatari heritage, which gives the whole district a unique character. There’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, museums, and boutique hotels like Park Hyatt, all laid out in a way that feels very polished but not over-the-top. It’s easy to hop on the Doha Metro too, since Msheireb Station is a major hub where all three metro lines meet—convenient if you’re planning to explore different parts of the city.
It’s also a great place to just slow down. You can stroll through the Msheireb Museums. It’s the kind of spot that makes you forget you’re in a capital city—even though you’re right in the middle of it.
Souq Waqif
Photo from VisitQatar
The moment you walk into the maze-like alleys of Souq Waqif, there’s this deeply traditional atmosphere that wraps around you. Locals are bargaining, shopkeepers are calling out, the smell of grilled kebabs or fresh bread is everywhere. What I love even more is how close it is to Msheireb Downtown. You can literally walk from the modern, clean-lined streets of Msheireb into Souq Waqif in under five minutes—and suddenly you’re surrounded by falcons, oud, woven fabrics, and clay pots. The contrast is honestly kind of beautiful. Msheireb shows you where Qatar is going; the Souq reminds you where it came from.
Even after visiting multiple times, it never feels repetitive. It’s the kind of place where every little corner tells a story—and it’s different every time you go.
Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid AlMahmoud
One of the most widely known landmarks in Doha, the spiral-shaped building, is a governmental entity centrally located near Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art. While it remains a functioning mosque, Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid AlMahmoud also hosts religious, education-related and social activities.
Chabrat Al Mina
Photo from VisitQatar
Chabrat Al Mina honestly feels like one of those spots you just stumble into and instantly go. It’s this chilled-out little area near the old port, right next to Souq Waqif, and it has the perfect mix of charm and calm. The buildings are soft-toned and kind of artsy, with arches and cute balconies that give it a warm, coastal vibe. It’s quiet, clean, and just feels good to walk around. Great for a coffee or a stroll.
I went there after my breakfast, around 6:30 AM. Imagine the soft colors of the buildings with the sunset reflecting off the water. Take some artsy photos between the architecture, the boats, and the pastel tones, it’s an Instagram-friendly spot without even trying.
The Corniche
With a crescent shaped walkway around the Doha Bay, the Corniche offers the best views of the city’s modern skyline. The Museum of Islamic Art is at the southern end of the Corniche. The building was conceived by Pritzker Prize-winning architect I.M. Pei, best known for designing the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris.
Box Park
Shipping containers are repurposed into colourful shopping and food outlets, making Box Park a photogenic and Instagram-friendly location. These metal boxes have been repurposed as shops, cafés, dining outlets and commercial spaces, with various food trucks nearby.
Banana Island Resort
Banana Island Resort is one of those places that feels like a mini vacation without leaving Doha. The whole experience starts before you even get to the island. You check in at the Banana Island Welcome Center, near the Doha Corniche, where they handle your boat transfer tickets and give you a warm welcome with that typical Anantara-style hospitality. The waiting area is comfy and feels a little like you’re already on holiday.
From there, you hop onto a sleek catamaran ferry—clean, quiet, and super smooth. The ride to the island takes around 25 minutes, and if you go around sunset (like we did), it’s absolutely beautiful. The Doha skyline slowly fades behind you, the light gets softer, and the ocean breeze just puts you in a whole different mood.
Once you arrive at Banana Island, it really feels like a tropical escape. There are palm trees, overwater villas, golf carts buzzing around—it’s seriously peaceful. Even though it’s just a short boat ride away, it doesn’t feel like you’re in the city at all.
We went there specifically for the dinner buffet, and it was totally worth it. The restaurant had outdoor seating with ocean views, and everything was beautifully set up. The buffet had a great mix—grilled meats, fresh seafood, salads, Arabic and international dishes, and a pretty indulgent dessert section. The atmosphere was relaxed but elegant.
Education City and Qatar National Library
Photo from VisitQatar
If you love beautiful spaces and quiet moments, you have to visit the Qatar National Library. This place is worth seeing. The library isn’t just pretty, though—it’s massive. There’s everything from cozy reading corners to high-tech media rooms and even a heritage library tucked below, with old maps and rare manuscripts. But what makes it even more special is what’s outside. Qatar National Library is right in the middle of Education City, so when you look out through the huge glass walls, you can actually see some of Qatar’s most well-known universities—like Georgetown, Northwestern, Weill Cornell, and more. It’s cool to be in a place where you’re literally surrounded by knowledge, both inside and out.
Katara Cultural Village
You might go thinking it’s just a spot for museums or art events, but it ends up being so much more. It’s huge, open, and right by the water—with a mix of traditional Arabic architecture, quiet courtyards, and little alleyways that are perfect for just walking and seeing where you end up.
Photo from VisitQatar
One of the standout spots is the amphitheatre—this massive, open-air space that feels like something out of ancient Rome, but with a backdrop of the sea. Even when there’s no event happening, it’s worth stopping by just to take it all in. The design is stunning, especially around sunset when the light hits the stone just right.
But Katara isn’t just about culture and architecture—it’s also packed with restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re in the mood for something fancy or just want to grab a karak and chill, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find international cuisines, Arabic grills, coffee shops, dessert spots, and everything in between. It’s actually a great place to go if you’re with a group and no one can agree on what to eat—there are that many options. And yes, there’s shopping too. A lot of people don’t realize this, but Katara has boutique stores and little pop-ups that sell everything from local crafts to designer pieces.
The Pearl
It’s modern, clean, and kind of gives off a resort-meets-city vibe. You’ve got palm-lined roads, waterfront views everywhere, luxury yachts casually docked along the marinas, and neighborhoods that each have their own feel.
You can walk around the marina at Porto Arabia and do a little window shopping or café hopping. Or head to Medina Centrale if you’re in the mood for something livelier—think movie nights, restaurants, and outdoor events, especially in the cooler months.
The vibe at The Pearl is polished but still relaxed. You’ll see families out for ice cream, people walking their dogs, couples grabbing dinner with a view—it’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy being out.
Qanat Quartier
It’s this little neighborhood inside The Pearl, and the moment you arrive, you feel like you’ve ended up in a pastel-colored version of Venice—but with way fewer people and a lot more calm. There are canals weaving through the area, cute little arched bridges, and colorful buildings with balconies that honestly look like they were pulled out of a painting.
One thing I didn’t expect? People actually live there. Like, those dreamy balconies and waterfront views aren’t just for show—Qanat Quartier has apartments, and yes, people really wake up to that view every day. If you’re planning a longer stay in Doha and want something scenic and quiet, you can even rent a place there. It would honestly be such a peaceful spot to stay.
Lusail
Lusail honestly feels like a peek into the future. Everything looks brand new and you kind of get the sense that the city is still unfolding. But that’s what makes it interesting. It’s modern, ambitious, and totally different from the older parts of Doha.
One of my favorite spots is the Marina Promenade—walkable, lined with palm trees and slick cafés, and right along the water where fancy yachts are parked like it’s no big deal. Then there’s Lusail Boulevard, which has become a hotspot lately with events, food stalls, and the kind of glowing, high-tech architecture that makes you stop and look up every few minutes. The vibe there at night? So good.
And if you’re driving into Lusail, you have to notice the Lusail Twin Arch Bridge. It connects West Bay to Lusail and looks especially impressive at night when it’s all lit up. Of course, there’s also the Lusail Stadium—famous from the World Cup—and even though the area around it is still developing, it already feels iconic.
The Torch Doha
The Torch Doha is one of those buildings you just can’t miss—even if you tried (I was! That was my last destination. LOL). It’s tall and shaped like, well… a torch. And at night, it literally lights up with colors that change every few seconds, which makes it look even more futuristic. It’s located right in Aspire Zone.
What makes The Torch even better is what’s around it. Just next door is Villaggio Mall, which is wild in its own right. It’s styled like a little Italian town—with painted skies on the ceiling, fake canals, and even gondola rides (yes, indoors). You can shop, eat, watch a movie, or just walk around pretending you’re in Venice with air conditioning. It’s weirdly charming and totally over-the-top, but in a fun way.
You’re also right next to Aspire Park, one of the nicest green spaces in Doha. It’s huge, peaceful, and perfect for a walk, a picnic, or just sitting by the lake and people-watching. If you’re staying at The Torch, it’s an easy place to go for a morning walk or an evening break.
Dahl Al Misfir
Photo from VisitQarar
Dahl Al Misfir is believed to have been formed 325,000 to 500,000 years ago during the mid-Pleistocene Era. Located west of Doha, in the centre of the peninsula, Dahl Al Misfir is one of Qatar’s most exciting natural sites. At 40 meters deep, it is considered the largest and deepest, yet accessible cave in Qatar.
Qatar Stopover
Qatar has become a major international hub because of the global reputation of Qatar Airways. With so many flights connecting through Hamad International Airport, it’s common for travellers—whether they’re heading home or flying out for business—to plan a stopover in Doha. And more often than not, that stopover turns into a mini leisure trip. From luxury hotels and world-class dining to cultural experiences and desert adventures, Qatar makes it really easy to turn a layover into something a lot more memorable.
If you’re thinking about a Qatar stopover, the best place to start is the VisitQatar website. You can check if your nationality is eligible for visa-free entry. If you’re not eligible, no worries—you can easily apply for a visa through the Hayya platform. Seeing both of them, Hayya and VisitQatar are some of the most user-friendly and well-organized travel platforms I’ve come across. Everything you need as a tourist—from visa info to things to do—is laid out clearly and in a way that actually makes planning enjoyable.
Here’s a recommended itinerary and budget when travelling or making a stopover in Qatar.
Here’s a recommended itinerary and budget guide to help you make the most of your trip or stopover in Qatar—whether you’re here for a quick layover or a few days of exploring.
| TIME | PLACE | REMARKS | SAR | QAR | USD |
| DAY 0 – Flight and Checkin | |||||
| 2:40PM | Riyadh (King Khalid International Airport) | Flight with return ticket for one passenger | 2,490.00 | 2,415.00 | 652.05 |
| 4:10PM | Doha (Hamad International Airport) | Taxi airport to hotel | 45.56 | 45.00 | 12.15 |
| 5:30PM | Park Hyatt Doha | Checkin for three nights | 1,518.75 | 1,500.00 | 405.00 |
| 6:00PM | Lusail | From Msheireb, take Red line directly to Lusail station Have dinner there | 303.75 | 300.00 | 81.00 |
| DAY 1 – Arts and Culture | |||||
| Time | Place | Remarks | |||
| 8:00AM | Education City and Qatar National Library | From Msheireb, take Green line directly to Qatar National Library station | |||
| 10:00AM | The Pearl Island | From Qatar National Library, take Green Line to Al Bidda then transfer to Red line going to Legtaifiya station, transfer to M109 from Legtaifiya Metro Station Ent 1 going to Tower 22 West Hayr Al Khirregana Have lunch there | 303.75 | 300.00 | 81.00 |
| 1:00PM | Katara Cultural Village | From Tower 22 East Hayr Al Khirregana station, take M110 going to Legtaifiya Metro Station Ent 1 | |||
| 3:00PM | Msheireb Downtown Corniche Museum of Islamic Art Box Park Mina District | From Katara station, take Red line going to Msheireb | |||
| 5:30PM | Souq Waqif Sheik Abdulla Bin Zaid AlMahmoud | From Katara station, take Red line going to Msheireb Have dinner there | 303.75 | 300.00 | 81.00 |
| DAY 2 – Beach | |||||
| 7:00AM | Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara | “Hello Beautiful Weather” day pass This package includes pool and beach access, a QAR 200 dining credit redeemable at any available resort dining venue, a QAR 70 credit for recreational activities, and luxury boat transfers departing from Al Shyoukh Port at 9:00 am with a return trip at 5:30 pm. | 405.00 | 400.00 | 108.00 |
| 6:30PM | The Torch Doha Villagio Mall | From Al Shyoukh Port, go to Souq Waqif station of Gold line going to Al Aziziyah | |||
| DAY 3 – Adventure | |||||
| 5:00AM | Dahl al Misfar | Rent a car with a driver | 250.00 | 67.50 | |
| 8:30AM | Park Hyatt Doha | Checkout | |||
| TOTAL | 5,370.56 | 5,510.00 | 1,487.70 |
TRANSPORTATION
Qatar Airways
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Qatar Rail
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ACCOMODATION
Park Hyatt Doha
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X
The Torch Doha
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram
RECREATION AND ADVENTURE
VisitQatar
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | Tiktok
Msheireb Downtown
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | Tiktok
Chabrat Al Mina
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X
The Pearl Island
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram
Banana Island Resort
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X
Qatar National Library
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram
Lusail
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X
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Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
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Bahrain
Qatar
About the Author
- Chief Executive Editor
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PJ is a CPA, writer, storyteller, environment and youth advocate. As a writer, his articles on national development were published in a Spanish newspaper and local news network Rappler. As a storyteller and environment advocate, his documentary films on mining and environment were featured by ABS-CBN News and GMA News. He launched his career as a CPA at KPMG in the Philippines in late 2015. He started his professional journey as an external auditor of a global workspace provider (the largest audit client of KPMG in the Philippines), global bank, leading MFCG in the Philippines and a number of shared service centres. As an auditor, his team won the KPMG Asia-Pacific Data & Analytics Challenge and coached the Philippine team that placed third to the KPMG GlobalRunner Cup. More than two years later, he led KPMG in the Philippines’ Network of Audit Innovators and Data & Analytics Champions and its academic arm, while serving as a member of the KPMG Asia-Pacific Audit Digital Transformation Workstream. He served as a member of the Audit Methodology Group and Root Cause Analysis Team of KPMG in the Philippines. He was a regular training facilitator of KPMG on audit methodology, innovation, data and analytics, professional standards and regulatory updates. He also served as a coach for newly promoted supervisors. PJ was also the Firm’s System of Quality Management Implementation Manager and a Workforce of the Future Champion. He was also a Sampling Specialist of the Firm. In 2019, PJ was a member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA)’s Technical Working Group on Audit Methodology. PJ led in developing some of the innovative solutions of KPMG in the Philippines. Above all, PJ is a people investor. He invests on people who have potential and talents. That makes him a coach and mentor to some young professionals in the profession and served as a People Committee member of KPMG in the Philippines. He leads advocacy projects that help communities. He produces vlogs thru his YouTube channel, PJspirations which features stories of different individuals. As a volunteer, he is the Academic Master and Head Coach of PREMIER International Learning and Development Center, which provides coaching, mentoring, training and learning programs and platforms that promote growth and development in every individual’s life and career. He is also with the Middle East and Caspian regions of KPMG as a member of its Professional Practice group and Audit L&D for the Saudi Levant Cluster, providing subject matter knowledge and guidance on audit methodology, and learning and development programs to its offices. He is a proud Ilocano and a graduate of Northwestern University.
He also conducts #IamRemarkable sessions, a program initiated by Google for women and underrepresented groups.
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