Phenotypic, Genetic, and Production Characteristics of Joloano and Paraoakan Native Chicken Breeds of the Philippines: A Review

Abstract

The Joloano and Paraoakan native chicken genetic populations represent the two types of fighting native chicken breeds found in the Philippines, based on their distinct physical appearances, genetic makeup, and cultural value. The present study is a review paper that collates scientific knowledge pertaining to the two native chicken genetic populations in the Philippines. These two genetic types of chickens, Joloano, which comes from the Sulu Archipelago, and Paraoakan, which comes from Palawan Island, have been proven to have a different lineage than other Philippine native chickens since the microsatellite markers showed that neither Joloano nor Paraoakan belongs to the same lineage as other native chickens such as Labuyo and red junglefowl. In terms of phenotype, Paraoakan is recognized as the biggest chicken among the genetic types of Philippine native chickens due to their strong body and reddish-black feathers, whereas Joloano is known for its vertical stance, deep orange feathers, and muscular body for fighting purposes. Both chicken genetic groups demonstrate moderate to high genetic heterozygosity, suggesting sufficient genetic variability for conservation and selective breeding purposes. In terms of production, Paraoakan shows a competitive net income advantage over other native genetic groups in bio-economic modeling, while Joloano has shown growth responsiveness to locally available feed resources. Conservation efforts remain critical, as both chicken genetic groups face threats from genetic dilution through unregulated crossbreeding with exotic strains. This review identifies priority areas for selection, in situ and ex situ conservation, and genetic improvement programs.