San Juan limits water fights to designated zone for Wattah Wattah Festival

The San Juan City government has established a "basaan zone" on Pinaglabanan Road for the Wattah Wattah Festival on June 24 to control water fights.

Mayor Francis Zamora stated that all water-throwing activities will be confined to specific areas along Pinaglabanan Road, including between P. Guevarra Street and N. Domingo Street, and at the Pinaglabanan Shrine.

The new ordinance limits water-throwing acts and prohibits actions such as using dirty water, forcibly opening vehicles, threatening individuals, climbing or shaking vehicles, entering vehicles to throw water, wetting others outside the zone, operating unauthorized fire trucks, and using highly pressurized water sprayers.

The festivities, including water-dousing, are limited to between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on June 24.

Over 300 police officers will be deployed to ensure peace and order within and around the designated zone.

A revised city ordinance imposes a P5,000 fine and possible jail time for those caught dousing people with water outside the specified area.

Minors caught violating the ordinance will be referred to the City Social Welfare and Development Office, with parents responsible for the P5,000 fine and potential 10-day imprisonment.

San Juan will also implement a liquor ban from 12:01 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 24.