'Open up job opportunities for others': Engineer and three nurses pursue a deeper purpose through a business in Warrnambool

Maria Irene Morden,Leslyn May Lian,Mary Lynn Pagalilauan and Gladys Mae Bosi

Fully aware of scarce employment in regional areas, professionals-turned-business partners Maria Irene Morden, Leslyn May Lian, Mary Lynn Pagalilauan, and Gladys Mae Bosi blended their passion for food with an advocacy for providing livelihoods by opening the first Filipino restaurant in the area in December 2025.

Based on 2021 Census data and regional economic reports, Warrnambool, Victoria, had an unemployment rate of 3.1% in 2021, with subsequent reports suggesting a drop to approximately 1.9% by 2024, indicating a tight labor market.
According to the business partners, the initial capital outlay for their restaurant, 'Sizzling Manila,' was $80,000 AUD, split equally among them.
In addition to using social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the owners promoted the business by leveraging their deep connections.

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