Tiny dog, big spirit: Liit the Frenchie inspires at EastWest Dream Run

More than 6,000 runners joined the final leg of the EastWest Dream Run 2025 at Filinvest City in Alabang over the weekend, chasing fitness goals and personal records. But among the finishers and first-timers, one participant captured hearts from start to end — a small dog with a big story.

Liit, a French Bulldog with a disability, rolled through the 1K Dog Category with the help of a custom-built wheelchair. Her name, which means “small” in Filipino, stood in contrast to the powerful impact she left on spectators and fellow runners alike.

Owned by an EastWest employee, Liit is a Pet With Disability (PWD) who lost the use of her hind legs. Despite this, she participated in the sold-out dog run with her tail wagging and wheels spinning, embodying the true spirit of the event.

“Liit may be small, but her dreams are anything but,” said her owner, who also cares for four other French Bulldogs. “Liit holds a special place in my heart. Just because she’s a PWD dog doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the things other dogs do, like running freely and being part of something fun. Joining the EastWest Dream Run is our way of celebrating her fighting spirit and reminding everyone that you’re never too small or too different to chase after what you want.”

Cheered on by the crowd, Liit quickly became a crowd favorite. Though she didn’t finish the race, she left a message that echoed far beyond the track: showing up is already a victory.

The EastWest Dream Run 2025, held in celebration of EastWest’s 30th anniversary and the Filinvest Group’s 70th year, featured a variety of categories for all ages and experience levels—including the 30KM Dream Challenge, fun runs for kids, and the 1K Dog Run.

The event drew thousands of runners, walkers, and pet lovers from across the country in a shared celebration of health, hope, and community.

While many runners walked away with medals, Liit reminded everyone that some of the most powerful triumphs come on four wheels. With her joyful spirit and unwavering determination, she didn’t just run—she rolled into the hearts of everyone on the track.