Woman Soaked During Wattah Wattah Festival, Forced to Leave Jeepney
WATTAH WATTAH FESTIVAL – A woman was forced to step out of a jeepney in frustration after being repeatedly splashed with water during the festival.
The moment was shared online by Nephi Axe and quickly drew public attention and concern. In the video, the woman appears visibly upset as she is drenched multiple times while riding a public vehicle. Many viewers sympathized with her, pointing out the lack of consideration and safety during the event.
While the festival is meant to celebrate tradition, many believe such actions should never come at the expense of public safety or respect. Critics emphasized that the true spirit of cultural celebrations should uplift and unite communities—not inconvenience, embarrass, or endanger others. Concerns were also raised for the elderly, who may slip or suffer health issues from sudden dousing. Students and workers heading to school or their jobs, often in uniform and pleading not to be splashed, were still targeted—leaving many frustrated and helpless.
Meanwhile, the Wattah Wattah Festival, also known as the Basaan Festival, is celebrated every June 24 in San Juan City and other parts of the Philippines to honor Saint John the Baptist, who is known for baptizing people with water in preparation for the coming of Jesus. Traditionally, people splash or sprinkle water on one another as a symbolic act of blessing and remembrance of baptism. Children and adults playfully drench passersby using buckets, hoses, water guns, or coconut shells filled with scented water.
Though the festival brings joy and is deeply rooted in religious tradition, recent years have seen a rise in complaints. Some celebrants have gone too far—splashing water on unwilling people, including commuters, the elderly, and workers in transit. In extreme cases, harmful substances like acid have been thrown, raising alarm among residents.
As the celebration grows increasingly chaotic each year, many are now urging local governments to enforce safety measures and restore the true essence of the festival: a joyful, respectful, and meaningful tradition rooted in faith and community.
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