The local government of San Juan City has issued an apology for the disruptions and inconveniences caused by the traditional "basaan" during the annual "Wattah Wattah Festival" on June 24.
Apology and Accountability
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora expressed his regret over the unruly behavior of some participants. "I'm very sorry for what happened during our festival. I will not allow anyone to tarnish the image and reputation of San Juan City and our festival because of a few unruly participants," he stated during a press briefing on Thursday.
Mayor Zamora assured the public that appropriate legal actions will be taken against those responsible. "I will make sure that appropriate charges will be filed against them based on our ordinance and the Revised Penal Code so that they learn a lesson," he added.
Investigation and Legal Measures
Authorities are currently reviewing videos and photos circulated online showing residents behaving unruly, including dousing innocent passersby and even those inside vehicles with water. The festival celebrates the city's patron saint, Saint John the Baptist.
According to City Ordinance No. 51, series of 2018, unruly behavior during the festival can result in fines ranging from PHP 2,500 to PHP 5,000 and up to six days of imprisonment.
Incident and Arrest
San Juan City Police Chief Col. Francis Allan Reglos reported that only one formal complaint has been filed. This complaint involved a suspect who allegedly threw muriatic acid at an individual. "We immediately arrested him. He was detained but was able to bail out," Reglos said.
Mayor Zamora also noted that not all disruptive participants were city residents, as the festival is open to everyone. "Potentially, this kind of celebration is open to sabotage," he remarked.
Support for Victims
The mayor encouraged victims to come forward and assured them of the local government's support in filing complaints. "I encourage everyone, especially the victims, to come to my office. I would like them to personally file a case before our fiscal so that they can be penalized under the Revised Penal Code for heavier penalties," said Zamora.
The City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office had previously issued an apology for the incident.
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