San Juan City officials are investigating allegations of unruly behavior by some participants during the city’s “Basaan” or “Wattah Wattah” Festival, which took place last Monday, June 24.
The local government stated that they are actively gathering information regarding these incidents, which involved the dousing of individuals with water.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 26, on its official Facebook page, San Juan City acknowledged the reports of disturbances and emphasized their serious commitment to addressing all complaints related to the Basaan festivities.
They further stated that they are actively collecting evidence of disorderly conduct during the event.
The city government encouraged festival participants or witnesses who possess relevant photos or videos documenting alleged violations to submit them to the San Juan City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office. These images and videos will then be forwarded to the San Juan City Police Station for investigation.
The statement also expressed sincere apologies to those affected by the unruly behavior of some festival attendees. The city government assured the public that they will take all necessary measures to hold those responsible accountable and prevent similar incidents from recurring in future celebrations.
“Taos-puso kaming humihingi ng paumanhin sa mga naapektuhan ng kaguluhan ng ilang mga dumalo sa pagdiriwang. Tinitiyak namin na gagawin namin ang lahat ng kinakailangang hakbang upang masigurong pananagutin ang lahat ng mga lumabag nang naaayon at upang hindi na ito maulit pa sa mga susunod na pagdiriwang,” the post read.
Several individuals had taken to social media to express their frustrations over the inconveniences caused by the annual festival, emphasizing the need for a more responsible approach to upholding the tradition.
The dousing or splashing of water during the Basaan festivities is a symbolic representation of the baptism of St. John, as depicted in the Bible.
