Candelaria

 In the gamefowl world, Candelaria is most famous as the site of one of the Philippines' most prestigious and "lucky" derbies, but it is also home to serious breeding operations.

When you mention Candelaria Gamefowl Farm, people usually refer to one of two things: the legendary Candelaria Derby in Iloilo or the specific breeding farms located in Candelaria, Quezon.

1. The Candelaria Derby (Iloilo City)

While technically an event at the Iloilo Coliseum, the "Candelaria" name is synonymous with the Nuestra Señora Dela Candelaria 7-Cock Derby.

• The Reputation: This is the "World Slasher Cup of the South." It is held every February and attracts the biggest names in the industry (like Sonny Lagon, Gerry Escalona, and Tony Palmes).

• The "Lucky" Birds: Winners of the Candelaria Derby are highly sought after for breeding. If a bird wins here, it’s considered to have the perfect mix of "cutting" ability and "luck" (swerte).

---

2. Breeding in Candelaria, Quezon

Candelaria, Quezon, is a major hub for high-end gamefowl farms because of its climate and proximity to Manila. Several prominent breeders have facilities there, often focusing on the very birds we’ve been discussing:

• Joe Goode Grey Specialists: Many farms in this region maintain "Texas-style" Greys. Because the area is lush and green, the birds are often raised in wide-open ranges, which helps them develop the "high-breaking" leg power the Joe Goode line is famous for.

• The Hennie Connection: Candelaria is also known for breeders who specialize in "Binabae" (Hennies). There is a strong tradition in Quezon of breeding these deceptive, high-IQ fighters to compete in the Manila derbies.

---

3. Key Names & Farms

While many backyard breeders use the "Candelaria" tag, the major professional operations in that area are known for:

• Modern Facilities: Using "M-Boxes" (multi-purpose pens) and specialized flying pens to condition birds for the long knife.

• Biosecurity: The farms in Candelaria are often cited for their high standards, which is why big-time cockers often buy their "battle stags" directly from this region.

---

Summary: Why it Matters to You

If you are looking at birds from a Candelaria-based farm, you are likely looking at:

1. Battle-Hardened Bloodlines: Birds bred specifically for the intense 7-cock derby format.

2. Acclimatized Greys: Joe Goode Greys that have been successfully adapted to the Philippine tropical climate (which can be hard for pure US imports).

3. Elite Cutting: Because of the Candelaria Derby influence, the focus is almost entirely on "one-hit" cutting accuracy.

Are you looking to source some stags from a farm in Candelaria, or are you following a specific entry in the upcoming February derby? I can help you find more details on recent winners!