AFAD hopes high for industry’s progress

MANILA, Philippines — Expect a more vibrant and progressive firearms industry in the future as the government promises much lenient rules and regulations for responsible gun owners and members of the Philippine shooting team.

‘We’re up against loose firearms but sadly, yung mga responsableng mamamayan na may-ari ng legal na mga baril ang napapahirapan dahil sa istriktong mga panuntunan. Babaguhin po natin ang sitwasyon para naman mas maenganyo ang ating mga kababayan na iparehistro at palisensyahan ang kanilang mga baril upang mabantayan at mairecord sa Philippine National Police,” said newly appointed National Police Commission (Napolcom) Commissioner Atty. Rafael  Vicente Calinisan.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary for Peace and Order Nestor Sanares, representatives from the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines, and officials from the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines, Inc. (AFAD), led by President Edwin Lim and Spokesperson Alaric ‘Aric’ Topacio, joined Calinisan during the opening rites of the 31st Defense and Sporting Arms Show on Wednesday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Calinisan’s pronouncement agrees with the recent passing in Congress of the bill amending Republic Act 10591 (An Act Providing For A Comprehensive Law of Firearms and Ammunition and Providing Penalties for Violation Thereof). Under the amended bill already transmitted to the Senate, 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.