P100-M ‘entertainment boulevard’ in QC eyed

MANILA, Philippines - The Quezon City government has allocated some P100 million for the development of an “entertainment boulevard” in the city.

Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, who also sits as the city’s tourism czar, will head the technical working group for the conversion of Sgt. Esguerra Avenue in Barangay South Triangle into a movie and television-themed street.

Funds for the project will come from the P100-million budget earmarked for the tourism development program of South Triangle area, where GMA-7 and ABS-CBN networks are located.

According to the local government, the development plan for Sgt. Esguerra will include an inventory of vacant lots and properties in the area that can be utilized as areas of development.

At least seven properties in the area have been included in the inventory, and will be transformed into screening rooms and museums.

The city also announced its plans to engage in public-private-partnerships for the development of specially designed sidewalks, intersections and pedestrian crossings, pocket park development and the construction of entrance archway and signages.

The city council has earlier approved a resolution that will facilitate the construction of 10 welcome arches bearing the statement, “Welcome to Quezon City, the City of Stars.”

“As City of Stars, Quezon City does not only highlight the city as a haven of major television studios, movie production outfits and recording companies, but the home of friendly, hospitable, talented, artistic and helpful people,” read the resolution authored by second district Councilor Roderick Paulate.

“The recognition of being the City of Stars manifests that Quezon City is the city that is rich in culture and a potential hub for business investments,” it added.