SPORTING ARMS SHOW. Senators Ronald Dela Rosa and Mark Villar cut the ribbon during the opening of the 29th Defense and Sporting Arms Show Part 2 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Thursday (Dec. 7, 2023). The five-day event is organized by the Association of Firearms and Ammunitions Dealers (AFAD) headed by Aric Topacio (left). (PNA photo by Jean Malanum)
MANILA – The Association of Firearms and Ammunitions Dealers (AFAD) is setting its sights high in the second edition of the 29th Defense and Sporting Arms Show which opened on Thursday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
The annual gathering promises to be a true sporting event.
"It is time to make our annual event into something else. Very soon, beginning this year, we shall be known not just as individual gun enthusiasts but a unified industry," AFAD president Aric Topacio said during the opening ceremony attended by Senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Mark Villar.
The five-day event featuring top-of-the-line local and imported firearms, optics, sporting goods and accessories, is open to the public, gun enthusiasts, hobbyists, and sportsmen.
AFAD is not only a catalyst for displaying the latest in firearms but also a player in shaping policy and promoting responsible gun ownership. It wants to make the trade show into a forum to discuss policies that impact the industry.
"Despite the gun ban during the barangay election, our athletes remain active in competition. AFAD stands ready to assist them, securing special permits when needed," Topacio said. (PNA)
