In simple ceremonies, Belmonte switched on the street lamps of the avenue, which is now one of the major tourist destinations in Quezon City.
The redevelopment of the avenue, named after the first appointed city mayor, includes landscaped sidewalks and lamp posts in front of business establishments, mostly restaurants, in the area.
Residents and members of the Tomas Morato Business Club (TMBC) said that aside from being a family-oriented area where people come in droves to enjoy good food, the area is also a favorite evening promenade area.
Edwin Rodriguez, TMBC spokesman, said the once controversial development project, can now be enjoyed by people from all walks on life.
"The well-lighted streets and wide sidewalks have made the avenue an ideal promenade area," Rodriguez told The STAR in an interview.
Even former MTRCB and PCSO chairman Manuel "Manoling" Morato, admitted the development program has dramatically transformed the area "into a beautiful place."
His father was the first appointed city mayor in the city.
Morato said, however, that while pedestrians can now enjoy evening strolls, traffic is still a problem in the area because of undisciplined drivers who double-park their vehicles.
The avenue has been abuzz with activity during the last few days in preparation for Halloween night.
"The ENGkanto sa Morato signals the start of a series of evening activities to attract more people in the avenue," Rodriguez said.
The sidewalk development project in Tomas Morato is part of the city government’s comprehensive development plan to set up more business centers in Quezon City.
Other areas of development are in Cubao, Libis and Eastwood, the Balintawak area, North Fairview and Novaliches. The ABS-CBN building which has been registered with the Philippine Export Zone Authority as Information Technology Park is being eyed as the nucleus of business centers in the city.
Belmonte said improvement projects are meant to restore the sidewalk to pedestrians as well as attract and enhance business in the area. – Perseus Echeminada