This DIY map shows how well-traveled you are in the Philippines

A DIY Philippine travel map has effectively caught the internet's attention.

Created by software engineer Denz Del Villar, the website shows users how many places in the Philippines they've traveled to, stayed in, or lived in.

Personalities like Macoy Dub and even GMA journalists Kara David, Howie Severino, and Chino Gaston have checked it out.

"This simple web app helps you visualize how well-traveled you are in the Philippines," Denz said.

In an interview with GMA Integrated News, he revealed he had the idea to create this as early as 2019 when he saw a Japanese version of the map.

However, he "didn't really do web development," so it wasn't until he discovered ChatGPT, an AI chatbot launched in 2022, that he gave it a shot. He began working on it early April — during a 10-hour layover for a holiday trip, no less.

Denz's site went live this week, and quickly made rounds online.

"I feel very happy that people are eager to share how much of the Philippines they have — and haven’t — explored," he said. "I read people’s posts, tweets, and stories about their maps and I see amazing stories of how they’ve been to a lot of local destinations."

"It’s not always about holiday travel — many achieved high scores because of work. Whatever the reason is, everyone appreciates the time they spent in those provinces," he added.

He also invited his fellow Pinoys: "Let’s keep our wanderlust high and keep exploring domestic destinations." Personally, he's hoping to visit Palawan, Cebu, and Batanes soon!

You can try out the site here.

—JCB, GMA Integrated News