Get ready for some real fireworks when top-notched sporting firearms and shooting products from renowned local and international manufacturers go on full display at the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, Inc. (AFAD) stages the first of two parts of the highly anticipated 30th Defense and Sports Arms Show scheduled on August 21-25 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
AFAD spokesperson Alaric ‘Aric’ Topacio said that over 100 brands promise high-quality local and imported products that are available for gun enthusiasts and other shooting stakeholders to judge and consider. Also, more than 40 exhibitors are already confirmed to participate in the five-day event considered as the country’s premier arms show.
“We’re fully booked. Our members and exhibitors are thrilled to make this year’s arms show truly unforgettable. It’s AFAD’s 30th arms show since the formation of the group more than three decades ago, that makes us arguably the longest-running arms show ever,” said Topacio during a media launching recently at the Milkyway Restaurant in Makati City.
“We have a stronger community through the years and this 30th edition highlights AFAD's relentless effort to prevent the proliferation of loose firearms through education, promotion, and programs focused on responsible gun ownership,” added Topacio who also serves as comptroller for the new set of AFAD officers.
AFAD elected its new set of officers headed by Edwin Peter B. Lim of Magnus Sports Shops as president. Comprising the Board are Reynaldo C. Espineli of R. Espineli Trading (vice president), Maria Cristina Tuason-Gonzalez of Squires Bingham International, Inc. (Secretary), Edwin D. Ano, Jr. of Topspot Guns and Ammunition Trading (Treasurer), Alaric Alexander J. Topacio of Tools Trading Corporation (Comptroller) and officers Patrick James H. Dionisio of OP.B. Dionisio & Co., Inc., Dino C. Reyes of Lynx Firearms and Ammunition, Mary Grace T. Parilla of True Weight and Ivy Illine C. Sapasap of Imperial Guns, Ammo & Accessories.
Topacio believes AFAD, through a collaborative effort from all members, will continue to move forward not just as a reliable income-generating industry in the country but also on the sporting side as Lim is also the current president of the Philippine Practical Shooting Federation (PPSF).
Invited to grace the affair are Presidential son and Ilocos Norte 1st District Congressman Ferdinand Alexander ‘Sandro’ Araneta Marcos, Senate President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero, Senator Lito Lapid, and key officials from both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Topacio said that equally exciting side activities during the DSAS are the seminars and educational programs on self-defense, responsible gun ownership, firearms safety handling, and regulation policy on gun ownership.
“The negativity and notions about guns and firearms are very challenging for us, that’s why we have to double our effort in the promotions and education on responsible gun ownership,” added Topacio.
And to express AFAD's gratitude to the support of the public and to all stakeholders, Topacio announced they will raffle off one handgun per day during the show.
