After months of intense qualifiers across Davao, Manila, and Cebu, the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines national final finally exploded onto the stage in Cebu’s Ayala Center last May 24. The country’s top dancers brought fire and skill, turning the Queen City of the South into a battleground for hip-hop, waacking, locking, and voguing. The crowd was electric, holding the fate of the dancers in their hands as each battle raised the stakes higher.

Sam Rivera, better known as Nemesis, stunned the crowd with her krump skills and fierce stage presence, earning the title of 2025 national champion. Winning on home turf was a dream come true for the Cebuana, who said the energy from family, friends, and hometown supporters gave her the boost she needed to take the crown.

Nemesis wins in hometown Cebu after fierce battles

With this victory, Nemesis has secured her place to represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Dance Your Style world final in Los Angeles this October. She described the opportunity as life-changing, especially since it will be her first time outside Asia. Her game plan is clear: train her body, mind, and soul to give a performance that shows the world what Filipino street dancers can do.

Beyond the battles, the national final was a full celebration of Cebu’s urban culture. Performances by local stars like Karencitta and dance crew SZHD energized the crowd and turned the event into a vibrant festival. Nemesis now carries the hopes of the Filipino dance community as she heads to the global stage.

Preparing for the world final with passion and focus

Nemesis is focused on balancing faith, physical training, and mental strength to prepare for the world final. She believes her uniqueness and authenticity as a dancer will shine when she steps on the international stage. The countdown to October 11 in Los Angeles has begun, and the Philippines will be cheering loud for their new queen of Red Bull Dance Your Style.