The Henry Lee Irwin Theatre at the Ateneo de Manila University lit up on November 30, 2025, as nearly 2,500 dancers, fans, and supporters filled the venue for “Chosen Ground 19,” the annual competition of the University of the Philippines (UP) Streetdance Club. Now in its 19th run, the competition remains one of the most anticipated streetdance events in the country.
For almost two decades, “Chosen Ground” has built a space where young talents, student teams, and seasoned crews share the same stage. The latest edition featured 49 teams from across the Philippines—comprising 16 high school teams, 14 college teams, and 19 open teams. The event also featured special performances from Team Package Makers, The Crew, and the UP Streetdance Club. The crowd was star-studded, with members of P-pop girl groups BINI and DNA spotted enjoying the open division category.
The night brought together a strong roster of competitors judged by industry heavyweights Vimi Rivera, MJ Arda, Von Asilo, Adam Alonzo, and Chips Beltran. Each division delivered its own flavor, creating a high-energy program that showcased the versatility of the Filipino dance scene—from hard-hitting hip-hop to fluid contemporary pieces.
In the college division, Artist Connection–Exude Dancers claimed the top spot for the second straight year, earning thunderous applause from the crowd. Meanwhile, the high school and open divisions delivered tight races, with teams displaying sharp technique and confident staging throughout their sets.
Here is the official list of winners:
High School Division
- Champion: Sayawatha Dance Troupe (Miriam College High School)
- 1st Runner-up: Indak Lasalyano Dance Company (De La Salle University Integrated School)
- 2nd Runner-up: ADHIKA (St. Scholastica’s Academy of Marikina)
College Division
- Champion: Artist Connection–Exude Dancers (FEU Tech)
- 1st Runner-up: Nexus Cardinals (Mapua Cardinals)
- 2nd Runner-up: La Salle Dance Company–Street (De La Salle University – Manila)
Open Division
- Champion: Nocturnal Dance Company
- 1st Runner-up: Oxycrew
- 2nd Runner-up: Nomads
Dancing for a cause beyond the competition, the event continued its commitment to social responsibility. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefited Tulong sa Kapwa Kapatid, a youth-centered organization focused on education and community support.
Looking Ahead
As the night wrapped up, dancers and supporters left the theater buzzing with excitement, already looking forward to what comes next. With its growing audience and consistent showcase of talent, “Chosen Ground” isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Choose your ground. Stand your ground. Coming stronger in November 2026.
For full results, official videos, and updates:
- YouTube: youtube.com/@chosenground
- Instagram: @chosen.ground
- Facebook: Chosen Ground
- TikTok: @chosenground
