Enrique Castillo Jr. of Enza 68 GAMEFARM, transformed a childhood passion for gamefowl into Lakpue Drug, Inc., a company that revolutionized the gamefowl industry in the Philippines. This is the inspiring story of a man driven by innovation, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Enrique Castillo Jr. is a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in the gamefowl industry. His journey from a young enthusiast to the founder of Lakpue Drug, Inc. is a tale of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Enrique’s love for gamefowl began at a young age. He fondly recalls buying gamefowl with his yaya when he was just 13 years old. Raised in a family that appreciated the sport of sabong, Enrique’s early exposure to gamefowl breeding and fighting ignited a lifelong passion. He began with the bloodlines of Bathcoy Alunan Lemon and McLean Hatch from Harold, setting the foundation for his future endeavors.
Enrique’s personal background is rooted in simplicity and family values. A devoted husband to Lizanne Yao and father to Lesly Erin, Enrique-Jaime, and Enrique-Alfonso, he describes himself as a straightforward, frank individual who values honesty and integrity. “Wag tayo manggulang. We do the best we can, with whatever resources we have,” he says, reflecting on the principles that guide him.
Starting Lakpue Drug, Inc. was not without its challenges. Enrique’s grand vision for the company required significant capital and resources, which he initially lacked. However, his determination and perseverance saw him through numerous meetings with different banks to secure the necessary funding. These early obstacles only strengthened his resolve to build a company that would become a leader in the gamefowl industry.
Lakpue Drug, Inc. has revolutionized the gamefowl industry in the Philippines through innovative products and educational initiatives. In the early days, conditioning gamefowl involved simple methods such as feeding mash and corn, supplemented with a few vitamins. Recognizing the need for more advanced and specialized products, Enrique introduced innovations that transformed the industry. He pioneered the use of products specifically formulated for gamefowl, moving away from the practice of using drugs intended for humans.
For Enrique, the gamefowl industry is a never-ending challenge that keeps him motivated and passionate. He likens it to an ongoing race with no finish line, where constant improvement and innovation are essential.
One of Lakpue’s significant contributions was the establishment of the Philippine Cocking School. This initiative provided valuable education and training to gamefowl enthusiasts, helping them improve their techniques and compete more effectively. By sharing previously guarded secrets of conditioning and handling gamefowl, Enrique leveled the playing field, allowing both big-time and small-time cockers to benefit from advanced knowledge and practices.
Enrique’s vision for Lakpue Drug, Inc. has always been ambitious. He aims to make LDI the number one leader in the gamefowl industry, a vision that is steadily becoming a reality. His dedication to excellence and innovation ensures that the company’s products and services consistently set new standards in the industry. Enrique believes that in time, LDI’s reputation and impact will speak for itself.
One notable innovation is the development of “Wash Out Intense,” a shampoo specifically made for gamefowl. Previously, enthusiasts used shellguard, a dog shampoo, for their chickens. Recognizing the need for a tailored product, Enrique introduced Wash Out Intense, significantly improving the care and health of gamefowl.
By moving away from “borrowed” products and developing items specifically designed for gamefowl, Enrique has professionalized the industry. His efforts have helped breeders achieve better results and maintain healthier flocks, ultimately raising the overall standards of gamefowl breeding and fighting in the Philippines.
Enrique’s commitment to education within the gamefowl community is evident in his advocacy for passion and patience. He emphasizes that breeding gamefowl is a reflection of one’s personality. The traits of the breeder often manifest in the birds they produce. For example, a breeder with a hot temper may produce gamefowl with similar traits, while a calm breeder may produce more composed birds. This belief underscores the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in successful gamefowl breeding.
Enrique’s ultimate goal is to make the Philippines the “Mecca” of cockfighting, a place synonymous with the best handlers and gamefowl enthusiasts in the world.
For Enrique, the gamefowl industry is a never-ending challenge that keeps him motivated and passionate. He likens it to an ongoing race with no finish line, where constant improvement and innovation are essential. Each year, he reviews the performance of his gamefowl and goes back to the drawing board to come back stronger if the results are not satisfactory. Enrique’s ultimate goal is to make the Philippines the “Mecca” of cockfighting, a place synonymous with the best handlers and gamefowl enthusiasts in the world.
When asked about his future plans, Enrique prefers to keep them under wraps with a simple, “Just wait and see.” This sense of mystery and anticipation reflects his continuous drive for innovation and improvement. He is always looking for new ways to enhance the gamefowl industry and provide better products and services to breeders and enthusiasts.
Outside of his work with gamefowl, Enrique has a deep love for exotic fauna and horses. Although he acknowledges that horses are not practical with the Philippine climate, he dreams of having his own personal zoo. This passion for animals extends beyond gamefowl, showcasing Enrique’s appreciation for nature and wildlife.
Enrique Castillo Jr.’s journey from a young gamefowl enthusiast to the founder of Lakpue Drug, Inc. is a remarkable tale of passion, innovation, and perseverance. His visionary leadership has transformed the gamefowl industry in the Philippines, setting new standards for excellence and inspiring countless breeders and aficionados. Through his dedication to education, his resilience in the face of challenges, and his unwavering commitment to quality, Enrique has built a legacy that will endure for generations. The gamefowl community is forever grateful for his contributions, and his story serves as a beacon of inspiration for all who share his love for these magnificent birds.
Lakpue Drug, Inc. has revolutionized the gamefowl industry in the Philippines through innovative products and educational initiatives. Before Lakpue Drug, Inc. entered the scene, the gamefowl industry relied heavily on traditional methods and products not specifically designed for gamefowl. The use of human and veterinary drugs was common, but these were not always suitable for the unique needs of gamefowl. Enrique recognized this gap and set out to fill it with products tailored to gamefowl care, conditioning, and performance enhancement.
The introduction of specialized products like “Wash Out Intense” revolutionized how breeders cared for their birds. This product, designed specifically for gamefowl, improved hygiene and health, which are critical for peak performance. The success of such products demonstrated Enrique’s keen understanding of the industry’s needs and his ability to innovate accordingly.
In addition to product development, Enrique emphasized the importance of education in advancing the industry. The Philippine Cocking School, founded by Lakpue Drug, Inc., offers training and education to gamefowl enthusiasts. This institution has been instrumental in disseminating knowledge and best practices that were once closely guarded secrets. By democratizing this knowledge, Enrique has empowered breeders of all levels to achieve better results and has fostered a more inclusive and progressive community.
Enrique’s belief in the importance of education is deeply personal. He views gamefowl breeding as an art that reflects the breeder’s personality and values. “Kailangan may tiyaga. May passion. Everything is trial and error. Whatever one breeds, shows your true personality,” he says. This philosophy underscores the importance of patience, dedication, and self-awareness in the pursuit of excellence in gamefowl breeding.
One of the most significant impacts of Lakpue Drug, Inc. has been the shift from using generic or borrowed products to those specifically formulated for gamefowl. This shift has not only improved the health and performance of gamefowl but has also elevated the standards of the entire industry. Breeders now have access to products designed with their specific needs in mind, leading to more consistent and superior outcomes.
Kailangan may tiyaga. May passion. Everything is trial and error. Whatever one breeds, shows your true personality.”
Enrique’s dedication to the industry goes beyond business. He has a genuine passion for gamefowl and a deep respect for the tradition of sabong. This passion is evident in every aspect of his work, from product development to his interactions with fellow enthusiasts. His straightforward and honest approach has earned him respect and admiration from peers and customers alike.
As Lakpue Drug, Inc. continues to grow and innovate, Enrique remains focused on his vision of making the Philippines the global hub for gamefowl breeding and fighting. He is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity in all aspects of the business. His relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that Lakpue Drug, Inc. will continue to lead the industry and inspire future generations of breeders.
The journey of Enrique Castillo Jr. and Lakpue Drug, Inc. is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to innovation. Enrique’s story is not just about business success; it is about transforming an industry and enriching a cultural tradition. His contributions have made a lasting impact on the gamefowl community, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future enthusiasts.
For those who share Enrique’s passion for gamefowl, Lakpue Drug, Inc. offers more than just products; it offers a pathway to achieving excellence. The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and education provides breeders with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a novice enthusiast, Lakpue Drug, Inc. is your partner in the pursuit of gamefowl excellence.
In conclusion, Enrique Castillo Jr.’s story is one of vision, dedication, and transformation. His work has elevated the gamefowl industry to new heights and has set a standard for others to follow. The gamefowl community owes a debt of gratitude to Enrique for his contributions, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of the industry for years to come.
By Mhar Delaben
