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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider AFAD Arms show celebrates 30th edition

AFAD Arms show celebrates 30th edition

Published Jul 30, 2024 05:17 am

At A Glance

  • The highly anticipated 30th Defense and Sporting Arms Show, hosted by the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, Inc. (AFAD), takes place from Aug. 21 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City and will feature top-notch sporting firearms and shooting products from renowned local and international manufacturers.

The highly anticipated 30th Defense and Sporting Arms Show, hosted by the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, Inc. (AFAD), takes place from Aug. 21 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City and will feature top-notch sporting firearms and shooting products from renowned local and international manufacturers.

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AFAD officials (from left) Comptroller Aric Topacio, Mary Grace T. Parilla, President Edwin Lim, Treasurer Edwin D. Año, Jr., and Ivy Illine Sapasap

AFAD spokesperson Alaric ‘Aric’ Topacio announced that thousands of imported and local products will be showcased by more than 40 exhibitors for enthusiasts and the defense industry to explore.

“We’re fully booked, and our members and exhibitors are eager to make this year’s arms show unforgettable,” said Topacio during a media launch at the Milkyway Restaurant in Makati City. “This marks AFAD’s 30th Defense and Sporting Arms show since our formation over three decades ago, making us arguably the longest-running arms show ever.”

“We have built a stronger community over the years, and this 30th edition highlights AFAD’s relentless efforts 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 has elected its new set of officers, led by Edwin Peter B. Lim of Magnus Sports Shops as President. The Board includes Reynaldo C. Espineli of R. Espineli Trading (Vice President), Maria Cristina Tuason-Gonzalez of Squires Bingham International, Inc. (Secretary), Edwin D. Año, Jr. of Topspot Guns and Ammunition Trading (Treasurer), and Alaric Alexander J. Topacio of Tools Trading Corporation (Comptroller). Other officers include Patrick James H. Dionisio of P.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

Lim believes that with collaborative efforts from all members, AFAD will continue to thrive as a reliable income-generating industry in the country. On the sporting side, the association is strengthened by the leadership of Lim, who also serves as the current President of the Philippine Practical Shooting Association (PPSA).

Notable guests invited to grace the affair include Presidential son and Ilocos Norte 1st District Congressman Ferdinand Alexander ‘Sandro’ Araneta Marcos, Senate President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero, and Senator Lito Lapid, alongside key officials from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). These esteemed politicians and officials have been known to participate in our shows in the past, demonstrating their ongoing support for AFAD’s initiatives and events.

Topacio mentioned that the DSAS will also feature exciting side activities, including seminars and educational programs on self-defense, responsible gun ownership, firearms safety handling, and gun ownership regulation policies.

“The negative perceptions and misconceptions about guns and firearms are challenging, but they also motivate us to work even harder,” added Topacio. “That’s why we are doubling our efforts to promote education and responsible gun ownership, ensuring that firearms are seen in a positive light as tools for self-defense and sport.”

To express AFAD’s gratitude for the support from the public and all stakeholders, Topacio announced that firearms will be raffled off each day during the show, along with other gear and accessories.

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