Years ago, in 2018 specifically, I was introduced to Open Street Map. As a then-Human Resource Assistant, I was in-charge in monitoring the locations of our sales personnel working on the field through the GPS application installed in their mobile phones. But at that time, I had no clue what this is, so, dare I say, I hated using OSM. So, I then ask the developer if I can use Google Maps/Satellite instead. And my wish was granted.

Then in 2020, I joined my current organization where I was introduced to GIS and QGIS. I forgot if it was during my first introduction to GIS or another occasion that reintroduced me to OSM. And my reaction was “Eeek, no.” Thus, the tale of “I Hate OSM” continues since I’ve barely used OSM whenever I create a map.

I never thought about that until now. Until the very second, I decide on this diary’s story of how life is a funny yet wise entity. How it gave me the understanding I lacked 4 years ago and offered me an opportunity to explore more about OSM. And this enlightenment would never have happened if it wasn’t for my GIS sensei, Ferdinand Dailisan, and the Pista ng Mapa X State of the Map 2022 organizers. You see without Sir Ferdinand informing me about PNMxSOTMA2022 and the organizer’s generosity to grant me as one of their travel fund grantees, I would not be here. I won’t be at the conference where my metamorphosis began.

During my whole PNMxSOTMA2022 experience, I got three E’s: experience, enjoyment, and enlightenment.

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