MANILA, Philippines — As the entire firearms industry braces for the impact of gun bans in the coming midterm National election, expect extravagance and grandiose displays of state-of-the-art sporting firearms and shooting products as the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers (AFAD) hosts the final part of the 30th Defense and Sports Arms Show slated Nov. 20 to 24 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
AFAD Spokesman Alaric 'Aric' Topacio said as the heat of the election gun ban is expected to hit hard on the firearms industry, they are making sure this year's final show will be a whole lot different from the previous show last August, and the Davao City edition last month.
"We take this election gun ban as a challenge to overcome," said AFAD spokesman Alaric 'Aric' Topacio.
"Some people may think the gun ban (because of the special holidays and the coming elections) is something that could hurt us. On the contrary, AFAD wholeheartedly welcomes gun bans due to special circumstances, and this is part of our mission in AFAD for responsible gun ownership."
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla is invited to grace the opening ceremony at 10:00 am.
Topacio stated that AFAD remains in close coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) regarding the gun ban exceptions, particularly in sporting firearms as members of the National Team need to undergo training and regular competitions.
"There's uncertainty on our part, the dealers, manufacturers, importers, the workers, and the community of responsible gun owners for the duration of the election gun ban. With no production and importation for six months, the industry is expected to lose 90% of its revenue. And with no labor needed, there's no tax income for the government," added Topacio.
"We are requesting more leeway to work with our lawmakers and the PNP so we can still be productive even on election season," added Topacio.
With over 100 brands of high-quality local and imported products from 40 confirmed exhibitors, Topacio said this show will be the best and most grandiose for gun enthusiasts and other shooting stakeholders.
"Kaya samantalahin na nila ang pagkakataon na magpunta sa ating show and take time to scan the best firearms product available," he said.
With its foremost mission to educate the public about responsible gun ownership, AFAD's activities and programs throughout the four-day event include seminars on the safe handling of firearms, the legal process of acquiring guns, and vital documents and government requirements. Also, in close coordination with the PNP, AFAD set up a one-stop area for applying for and renewing licenses to own and possess firearms available at the show.
Members and exhibitors included Trust Trade, PB Dionisio & Co., Inc., Squires Bingham International 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, Pascual Enterprises, Santiago Fiberforce, Jordan Leather & Gen. Mdse., Speededge, Magnus Sports Shop, Greyman Elite Inc., Bonanza Enterprise, Frontier Guns & Ammo, Jordan Guns & Ammo Trading, Tacops-Tactical Option, Inc., Raj's, Asia Defense and Armament Corporation and Secure Arms. TMT