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The San Juan City government is inviting the public to the annual Wattah Wattah Festival on Tuesday, 24 June, in celebration of the Feast of St. John the Baptist. Festivities will take place from 5 AM to 1 PM in and around the Pinaglabanan Shrine open parking area and Pinaglabanan Road.
This year’s celebration will feature the traditional water dousing or basaan, along with cultural performances, a vibrant street parade, live concerts, and community competitions. The city will again host the popular Santong Tao and street dance competitions, with District 1 barangays joining the Santong Tao and District 2 barangays participating in the street dance contest.
Mayor Francis Zamora earlier announced revised safety measures under City Ordinance No. 14, Series of 2025. Basaan activities will only be allowed from 7 AM to 2 PM within a designated zone along Pinaglabanan Road, specifically between N. Domingo and P. Guevarra. The use of dirty water, water bombs, and high-pressure hoses is prohibited. Splashing water outside the designated area or entering vehicles to throw water at unsuspecting bystanders is also banned.
A liquor ban will be enforced from 12:01 AM to 2 PM Violators face a fine of P5,000 or up to 10 days in jail. Minors caught breaking the ordinance will be referred to the City Social Welfare and Development Department, and their parents may also be penalized with a P5,000 fine.
To ensure peace and order, hundreds of police officers and city personnel will be deployed throughout the day. These include personnel from the Eastern Police District and the National Capital Region Police Office. Mayor Zamora also reminded the public that 24 June is a special non-working holiday in San Juan City, as declared under Proclamation No. 929 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Pinaglabanan Road, from N. Domingo to P. Guevarra, will be closed to all vehicles from 12 AM to 2 PM on the day of the celebration. Motorists are advised to expect heavy traffic and take alternative routes.
