The San Juan local government is ready to assist those who would want to file charges over the troubles and destructions caused by residents during the city’s “Wattah Wattah” festival on June 24, Mayor Francis Zamora said Friday.
In a radio interview, Zamora apologized over the festival’s turnout and stressed that the city does not tolerate unruly behavior.
Videos circulated on social media showing residents harassing motorists and passersby, dousing them without consent and damaging belongings, including gadgets and documents.
“These reports were turned over to the police and the ABC (Association of Barangay Captains) president of San Juan. The people who were caught on video violating the ordinance are being traced,” Zamora said.
The local government unit’s Ordinance No. 51 prohibits acts such as forcibly opening private vehicles, hurting other residents and splashing water on public utility vehicles during the festival.
Violators will be penalized with a fine of P2,500 with one day of community service (first offense), P3,500 with three days of community service (second offense) and P5,000 with one to six days of imprisonment (third offense).
“The city government can file against them but this is only up to the level of the city ordinance. But if we want a more stringent law, we can use the Revised Penal Code. But under the legal process, for the RPC to be used, they (victims) should personally file a complaint,” Zamora said.