Punjab-based environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal and Indian ambassador to the Philippines DL Ralte laid the foundation for what is said to be the first Punjabi school in Philippines and inaugurated a new gurdwara building on Nov 28.
Both are located near Panki on Mankada road, according to a statement from Seechewal’s office based in Sultanpur Lodhi, Punjab.
The statement said that the Punjabi community living in various cities of Philippines do not have access to Punjabi schools.
“They want their children should study in Punjabi language so that they stay connected with their mother tongue,” it added.
In phase one, 18 rooms will be built with the donation of the community members, it said.
The event attracted Sikhs from cities like San Pablo, Dagupan, Vigan, Tarlak, Urdaneta, Sanhoje, Cebu City, Santiago, Bagio and Kandano.
Seechewal has been going to the Philippines annually for the last 15 years, according to a staff from his office in Sultapur Lodhi.
Seechewal’s fame is due to his efforts to control environmental pollution, including installing underground sewage systems in villages and towns. He took the lead in the cleaning and beautification of River Kali Bein, the historical site where Guru Nanak was said to have disappeared for three days.
EARLIER: Seechewal (third from right) having a discussion with Indian ambassador to the Philippines DL Ralte.
