The country’s long-running Defense & Sporting Arms show, organized by the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines Inc. (AFAD), takes center stage anew with its 31st edition taking place starting Wednesday (July 23) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
AFAD spokesperson Alaric ‘Aric’ Topacio said their members and over 40 exhibitors committed to participating in the five-day event, which targets a better edition following the recent support given by the country's lawmakers to the firearms stakeholders’ mission of crafting new measures to boost further the development of both the business and sporting aspects of the industry.
“Expect world-class imported and locally made firearms and equipment for both sports shooters and responsible gun owners on full display at our event. Expect the best of shooting as our members and even this year's exhibitors feel the highs of the positive developments in the industry’s long fight for legit recognition,” said Topacio.
Top government and law enforcement officials led by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Nicolás Torres III were invited as special guests and speakers in the opening ceremony at 10:00 am highlighted with the tribute to members of the Philippine National Shooting who won medals in just recently concluded International Practical Shooting Championships in Czech Republic.
“Highlights of the event are a tribute to our Filipino shooting champions. Our shooters collected 16 gold medals, despite the fact, they are practicing with limited ammunition and short preparation. They deserved to be honored as they proved that we can be at par against the world’s best,” said Topacio, whose older brother Hagen is also a multi-medal shooter (shotgun).
Topacio added that hopes are high as the National Team will also see action in the 2nd IPSA Action Air World Championship, which the country is hosting from July 26 to August 3 in Iloilo City. They will compete against 200 shooters from 40 countries.
“The recent Congressional action not only provided a whiff of fresh air to members of the Philippine Shooting Team and responsible gun owners but also boosted the firearms industry as well, in line with the unrelenting effort to push for fair, practical, and responsible regulations."
Under the amended bill from the previous ammunition purchase limits of only 50 rounds, non-sports shooters can now enjoy 500 rounds while members of the Philippine Shooting Team (rifle, pistols, shotgun, and practical shooting) are now reloaded with up to 5,000 rounds to use for intensive training and competitions.
He added that AFAD officers had an audience with the PNP Chief and received assurance from Torres of the PNP's full support.
"The Chief PNP gave clear and firm directives to address long-standing policy issues, including the lack of adherence to RA 10591. He ordered the removal of overreaching restrictions imposed by past leadership—such as limits on barrel length, the one-rifle-per-person rule, and bans on sniper rifles and certain calibers. This marks a major step forward for responsible firearm holders and finally puts the rifle debate to rest," said Topacio.
Topacio also mentioned that the usual seminars and educational workshops on basic firearm handling, cleaning, and storage will benefit enthusiasts and prospective gun owners. Law enforcement will be present to assist and guide applicants through the process of obtaining an LTOPF and FR.
Members and exhibitors included Trust Trade, PB Dionisio & Co. Inc., Squires Bingham International Inc., Twin Pines, Inc. (Tactical Corner Inc.), Nashe Enterprises, Hahn Manila Enterprises, Shooters Guns and Ammo Corp., Metro Arms Corporation, R. Espineli Trading, Imperial Guns, Ammo & Accessories, Jethro International Inc.; Stronghand Incorporated, Final Option Trading Corporation, Force Site Inc, Lynx Firearms and Ammunition; Tactical Precision Trading, Armscor Shooting Center,
Topspot Guns and Ammo, Lordman Leathercraft Guns and Ammo, Defensive Armament Resource Corp. True Weight, Tactics SOG Industries Inc., Lock and Load Firearms and Sporting Goods Corp., Santiago Fiberforce, Jordan Leather & Gen. Mdse., Speededge, Magnus Sports Shop, Greyman Elite Inc., Frontier Guns & Ammo, Jordan Guns & Ammo Trading, Raj’s Military Supplies, Vulkan Armoury, True Weight and Secure Arms.
