The Benilde community laced up for the Lasallian spirit on Oct. 21, joining a pocket fun run at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) area in solidarity with La Salle University-Ozamis' Animo Run.
Coordinated by the Benilde Runners and supported by the People Organization, and Development Office (PODO) and the Benilde Marketing Center (BMC), the Animo Benilde Run brought together associates and staff through race kits sponsored by DLS-CSB, promoting wellness and generosity.
The Animo Run is a celebration of Lasallian values in motion. Organized by La Salle University-Ozamis to raise funds for the LSU Scholarship Endowment Fund, the event championed wellness and community involvement across the Lasallian network.
DLS-CSB served as one of the sponsors, by purchasing race kits for participating Benilde associates and holding the Benilde Animo Run, with the effort made possible through the Benilde Runners, an organized running group of enthusiasts within the College.
On the starting line
The five-kilometer fun run brought together Benilde associates from different offices. The event featured opening ceremonies, warm-up activities, and the distribution of refreshments and pre-event energy food for all participants.
The initiative stemmed from the BMC Office, which sought to contribute to a meaningful cause. “They wanted to show support for La Salle University–Ozamiz and their initiative to raise funds for scholars,” Ms. Hillary Handayan, an employee of the Partnership Officer under the Center for Partnership, explained.
Beyond acting as a support for the LSU endowment fund, the fun run also encouraged employees to take part in the advocacy while strengthening camaraderie and promoting the “Papawis After Work” initiative of the group, which promotes health and stress relief via regular physical activity.
Across the road
The choice of a fun run as the fundraising vehicle was deliberate and timely. “We are in the 'running era', and running brings people together,” Ms. Handayan noted. “A fun run does not only raise funds, it encourages movement, health, and connection.”
Around 40 participants turned out for the event, a testament to the community’s commitment to the Lasallian values of service and solidarity. “Seeing everyone in motion for a shared cause really showed what One La Salle is,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the event’s impact, Ms. Via Ferrer, one of the organizers and an employee for the Center for Partnership Advancement, shared that “the most rewarding part was feeling the sense of unity and compassion within the Benildean community.” The event reminded participants that the Lasallian spirit thrives in the moments of collective action and generosity.
She continued to echo the deeper sentiment of the Animo Run—one centered on fitness, community, and shared purpose. “Everyone came together to help, and it was truly heartwarming to see how small efforts, when combined, can create such a meaningful impact for Benilde.” Ms. Ferrer added.
Mr. Marco Santiago, BMC Director, shared that “With the success of this initiative, Benilde Runners hopes to open more opportunities for future activities with the community and to continue inspiring associates to stay active, connected, and engaged beyond the workplace.”
Taking the long stride
For many participants, the run offered both personal fulfillment and collective purpose. Ms. Jho Tacorda, an employee at the Center for Faculty Advancement (CFAd), who joined the event, shared that while she initially participated for her love of running, “knowing it supported a cause made it even more fulfilling. It became something beyond myself—a way to support others, especially the scholars.”
The organizers’ message resonated deeply with participants, a reminder that impact doesn’t require grand gestures. “No act of helping is ever too small,” Ms. Tacorda emphasized. ”A simple fun run can become more meaningful when it's turned into an opportunity to make a difference.”
To the scholars who will benefit from the fundraiser, Ms. Tacorda offered words of encouragement, saying, “Know that many of us believe in you and are cheering you on. This fundraiser is more than just an event—it is a symbol of our shared hope for your future. We believe in your potential and dreams.”
