By: Gem B. Reyes
Manama: Pioneering entrepreneur Marjorie Delco marked a significant milestone as her establishment, Pinoy Turo Restaurant, celebrated its 21st anniversary alongside the unveiling of its expanded facilities in Umm Al Hassam, Bahrain, on November 17, 2024. The milestone event highlighted Marjorie’s inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Roxas City, Capiz, to becoming a successful entrepreneur who has left an indelible mark on the Filipino diaspora in Bahrain.
Marjorie arrived in Bahrain 30 years ago at the age of 21, with dreams of creating a better future for her family. Hailing from a family of eight siblings, she worked tirelessly in the hospitality sector, gaining valuable experience that she later used to establish Pinoy Turo Restaurant in 2003 in Hoora.
The restaurant, which quickly became a beloved culinary hub for Filipinos in Bahrain, introduced locals and expatriates to authentic Filipino cuisine. Adjacent to the restaurant, Marjorie also operates Dunya Salon, providing beauty services to the community.
Driven by her goal to uplift her family, Marjorie brought her siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins to Bahrain, offering them opportunities to thrive. Through her perseverance, her family members have flourished, becoming successful professionals spread across the globe.
Marjorie’s entrepreneurial journey expanded beyond Bahrain when she opened Boracay Garden Restaurant in Auckland, New Zealand, which she managed for six years before returning to Bahrain in 2022. During her time away, her sister Marivic managed Pinoy Turo, ensuring its continued success.
The newly expanded Pinoy Turo in Umm Al Hassam was inaugurated with a blessing led by Pastor Ignar Reyes. Distinguished guests included the Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain H.E. Ambassador Anne Jalondo-on Louis, who delivered a heartfelt message of congratulations:
“Congratulations to Marjorie Delco on the expansion and grand opening of the Pinoy Turo Restaurant in Umm Al Hassam, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. This restaurant has helped promote Filipino cuisine in Bahrain, and the Embassy looks forward to future collaboration with Pinoy Turo on further introducing to Bahraini and other nationals the unique and very diverse flavors of food from the Philippines.”
Other attendees included Mr. Yusuf Lori -Director of Information & Follow -up (Capital Governorate) Orlando “Fonti” Fontanilla, President of FilAm Bahrain; Dinah Sta. Ana, President of Pinay Ikaw Na; officers of the TFBC; Nanju Francisco, Editor-in-Chief of Pinoy Aksyon News Bahrain; and close friends and family.
With the expanded space, Pinoy Turo is poised to continue its mission of promoting Filipino culinary heritage. Marjorie Delco’s story of resilience and determination serves as an inspiration not only to the Filipino community in Bahrain but to everyone who dreams of building a legacy through hard work and generosity.
Marjorie’s journey, from a young woman with big dreams in Capiz to a celebrated restaurateur in Bahrain, underscores the power of perseverance and community. As she celebrates this significant milestone, her story reminds us of the boundless possibilities that come with determination and a heart dedicated to helping others.
From Pinoy Aksyon News Bahrain, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Marjorie Delco on her 21 years of excellence and service to the Filipino community in Bahrain.
