‘Wattah Wattah’ fest guidelines released

The local government of San Juan City on Wednesday disclosed the final preparations and amended guidelines for this year’s “Wattah Wattah Festival,” set for 24 June, pursuant to City Ordinance No. 14, Series of 2025.

In a statement, the local government said that there are now key provisions included in the ordinance which aims to ensure a safer, more organized, and more meaningful celebration of the Feast of St. John the Baptist.

Water-drenching activities will be strictly permitted only from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and exclusively within the designated “Water-Drenching Zone” or “Basaan Zone.” This zone includes areas along Pinaglabanan Road, between N. Domingo and P. Guevarra Streets, and the vicinity of the Pinaglabanan Shrine. Splashing water outside this specific zone is prohibited.

Under the revised city ordinance, several actions are strictly prohibited during the festival: the use of dirty water or water/ice placed in plastic (e.g., water bombs), bottles, or containers that may cause injury; opening car doors or entering vehicles to splash water; inflicting harm or issuing threats; climbing, shaking, or rocking vehicles; splashing water outside the basaan zone; the use of unauthorized vehicles or fire trucks for drenching without a permit from the city government; and the use of high-pressure water sprayers, except those operated by authorized fire trucks.