Murcia

 When you ask about Murcia, you are referring to the municipality in Negros Occidental that is often called the "Gamefowl Capital of the Philippines."

In the breeding world, Murcia isn't just a place; it's a massive, high-tech hub where the industry's elite bloodlines (like the Joe Goode Greys you're interested in) are refined and tested.

1. The Montelibano Legacy

The most prominent name associated with Murcia is the Montelibano family.

• Alex Montelibano: An icon of the industry who started in the 1970s. He was a pioneer in importing and perfecting US bloodlines for the Philippine terrain.

• Andrew Montelibano: The current Mayor of Murcia and a major breeder (wing band AM Gwapits Kaliwete). He maintains a massive facility in Barangay Sta. Cruz, breeding thousands of birds annually, including Hatches, Sweaters, and Yellow-Legged fowls.

2. Why Murcia is "Special"

Murcia is to gamefowl what Napa Valley is to wine. The geography makes it perfect for raising "A-grade" birds:

• The Climate: Situated at the foot of Mt. Kanlaon, the cool breeze and volcanic soil help birds develop stronger bones and better respiratory systems than birds raised in the lowlands.

• Concentration of Experts: There are over 200 registered breeders in Murcia alone. On the road to a major farm, you will pass dozens of "backyard" breeders whose quality often rivals professional farms.

• The Economic Engine: Breeding is the second-largest industry in the region after sugar. It’s a way of life there, supported by specialized veterinarians and high-end feed mills.

3. Connection to the "Joe Goode Greys"

Because Negros breeders (Negrenses) are famous for being "Lemon" and "Grey" specialists, Murcia is one of the best places to find modern Joe Goode Grey crosses.

• Breeders in Murcia often cross the Joe Goode Silver with the Bacolod Lemon (a local legend).

• The Result: A bird with the surgical "cutting" of the Lemon and the "high-breaking" speed of the Joe Goode. If you see a "Grey-Lemon" winning at the World Slasher Cup, there’s a high chance its ancestors were raised in the ranges of Murcia.

4. Other Key Farms in the Area

• Wakela Farm: Owned by Warren Kenneth Larraga, another major operation in the Bacolod-Murcia area known for high-volume, high-quality production.

• Barangay Sta. Cruz: This specific barangay (village) is almost entirely dedicated to gamefowl farms, with over 300 hectares of land occupied by breeding ranges.