Cebu, Philippines, December 16, 2025(Yes Punjab News)
UNITED SIKHS, a global humanitarian organization anchored in Sikh principles of service and justice, has once again mobilized its Relief Operations Team in the Philippines, responding to the devastation caused by Typhoon Kalmaegi. This mission marks not only a continuation of emergency aid but a reaffirmation of the organization’s long-term commitment to sustainable recovery and community-led rebuilding.
A Reunion That Tells a Thousand Stories
One of the most moving moments of this year’s mission came when Gurpreet Sethi, UNITED SIKHS Philippine Relief Operations Team Lead, was reunited with a young man he had once carried on his shoulders during the Haiyan response. Now an adult, he sought out the team during their Kalmaegi operations to offer his gratitude. This is a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of trust and resilience forged in times of crisis.
Photos from both 2013 and 2025 show the transformation: from a child clinging to safety, to a young adult standing tall beside the man who once carried him. “It’s moments like these that remind us why we serve,” said Gurpreet. “Disaster relief is not just about aid, it’s about friendship and hope.
Reconnecting with community elders, sharing stories across generations
Community elders gathered to welcome the team, sharing stories of how UNITED SIKHS’ relief efforts had shaped their villages. These stories carried memories and the strength of continuity, affirming that disaster relief is not just about aid provision,but about friendship that breathes across generations.
The team also reunited with Ate Guillerma from Roxas,Capiz, a resilient lady whose home was rebuilt by UNITED SIKHS after Haiyan. Now, years later, she welcomed the team with tears and stories of how that shelter became a sanctuary for her family.
“Sir Sethi and UNITED SIKHS gave us more than a house, they gave us a future,” she said. She recalled Sethi’s promise: “We will not leave until we have built you a home.” Ate Guillerma eagerly continued relaying their experiences, and said “that is why I sent you a letter to express how grateful we are for you and for UNITED SIKHS.”
Support the Mission
Today, UNITED SIKHS works alongside local partners to ensure that aid is not only immediate but transformative. Relief hubs have been reactivated, and community members are actively engaged in co‑designing sustainable programs – from livelihood support to disaster preparedness.
A Call to Action
From the harrowing days of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013 to the present crisis, UNITED SIKHS has stood with Filipino communities. The organization’s relief efforts have spanned food distribution, medical aid, shelter construction, and psychosocial support, always guided by the principle of recognizing the human race as one.
UNITED SIKHS communities to join in this mission. Donations of food, medicine, hygiene kits, and shelter materials are urgently needed. Volunteers and partners are welcome to coordinate via www.unitedsikhs.org or contact@unitedsikhs.org.
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