‘No violations recorded in San Juan festival’

MANILA, Philippines — No violations were recorded outside the designated “basaan zone” during San Juan City’s annual Wattah! Wattah! Festival yesterday.

According to Mayor Francis Zamora, residents and visitors complied with the city’s policy limiting the water dousing activity to a controlled area along Pinaglabanan Road.

“In previous years, the water dousing was done citywide, which was difficult to monitor and regulate. This year, we invited everyone to Pinaglabanan for the festivities,” Zamora said.

As of 2 p.m. yesterday, not a single violation had been reported during the celebration of the feast of St. John the Baptist.

“I thank our citizens for their discipline and cooperation,” Zamora said.

A fight broke out between two groups within the zone, but was quickly resolved by police, Zamora said.

“Those involved in the minor incident are not residents of San Juan,” he said.

The designated basaan zone stretched from N. Domingo to P. Guevarra streets, covering about one kilometer.

Up to 8,000 people joined the celebration, making it one of the most attended Wattah! Wattah! Festival in recent years.

Over 500 police personnel were deployed to maintain order during the celebration.