To ensure peace and order during the upcoming Wattah Wattah Festival, the San Juan City government has designated a specific "basaan" (water dousing) zone along Pinaglabanan Road, limiting water fights to a controlled space on 24 June.
In a press briefing, Mayor Francis Zamora said the move is meant to avoid a repeat of last year’s chaos, when water-throwing spilled beyond traditional festivities, disturbing pedestrians and motorists alike.
"All celebrations will be confined to Pinaglabanan Road, between P. Guevarra Street and N. Domingo Street," Zamora announced.
Over 300 police officers will be deployed throughout the area to maintain order, with heightened monitoring both inside and outside the designated zone.
"I want to ensure this year’s festivities are peaceful and organized. What happened last year served as a wake-up call," Zamora said.
Under the city’s revised ordinance, those caught dousing people with water outside the zone face a P5,000 fine and up to 10 days in jail. If the violator is a minor, they will be referred to the City Social Welfare and Development Office, and their parents will shoulder the fine.
"Our ordinance is very clear. Penalties apply to prohibited behavior during the fiesta," Zamora said, reminding passersby that they won't get drenched if they stay out of the basaan zone.
Festival-goers are welcome to join the festivities, which will run from 7 AM to 2 PM
Zamora admitted the previous ordinance lacked specifics, making enforcement difficult. The new version closes loopholes and enables stricter regulation.
"We had to revise the ordinance because it didn’t define boundaries or rules clearly. Now, with a controlled zone, it’s easier to ensure safety and compliance," he said.