Due to our country’s enhanced community quarantine measures, I never would have imagined I could still be able to update Google maps at this event of crisis where we are highly encouraged to stay at home except when we have to buy our daily essentials which is food. Good thing, there’s an option of home delivery available to reduce the chances of going outdoors at these times.
It gives me a sense of joy being able to take initiative to help micro-enterprises update their information such as what I did when I had to call the meat shop for my order and delivery. I do regular walk ins on this meat shop on regular days and I haven’t tried their delivery services. Resorting to the information listed on Google maps, I contacted the landline number of the establishment only to find out it was a residential number which was an incorrect data. Luckily, I remembered having their calling card given to me by the cashier of this shop when I did my regular shop some time last year. (Good thing I was able to keep it, though I never thought I would use it someday to update the maps) Hence, I was able to update the contact details on Google maps right away and make that order delivered at home. That being told to you, so far, was my most interesting experience: being able to update and add correct data even while staying indoors. Aside from that, I felt a sense of accomplishment as I was the very first one to leave a review for this establishment.
Being a concerned citizen, it gives me fulfillment and happiness whenever I can help even in the simplest act of leading my “ka-barangay” (other villagers) to the right information. For me, being a Local Guide is an act of love and responsibility even when you’re not required to do so, even when you’re not even paid for.
What I love about being part of this community of volunteers who update our global map regularly is that I take pride taking the call to action, taking that initiative to be of help to other travelers and consumers create more options, make their best decision and connect them to other people such as our small local business owners. I think the best entitlement given to us as a local guide is to be a bridge of hope and truth as we are able to share facts instead spread incorrect or fake news during these events.
