SAN Juan City said it has moved the major events of the 2026 Wattah Wattah Festival to June 23, noting a specific zone was designated for the water-dousing or “basaan” tradition on June 24.
The Wattah Wattah Festival is held every June 24 in honor of San Juan Bautista, the city’s patron saint. It has been the subject of criticism for many years. The public outcry stems from unruly revelers forcing unwilling commuters, workers and delivery riders to participate, often ruining expensive electronics and work attire in the process.
Mayor Francis Zamora announced during a press conference Thursday that the Wattah Wattah Parade, Street Dance Competition and Festival Queen Competition will be held a day earlier than the usual June 24 schedule.
The city government said the adjustment will allow June 24 to focus on the traditional basaan festivities and other main activities, including the Santong Tao Float Competition, Watt-Ah Barangay: Best Booth Competition, and the Wattah Wattah Basaan and Street Party.
The official Basaan Zone will be located along Pinaglabanan Street between N. Domingo Street and P. Guevarra Street, where water-dousing activities will be allowed on June 24 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The city government said the designated area is part of its effort to ensure a safer and more organized celebration while managing crowds during the festival.
