The 29^th Defense and Sporting Arms Show, organized by the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, Inc. (AFAD), is not merely an exposition of firearms, but also a strategic step towards transforming the annual gathering into a true sporting event.

AFAD President Aric Topacio shared his vision, saying: “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.”

Like in the past, the country’s longest-running arms show will showcase a diverse array of top-of-the-line local and imported firearms, optics, sporting goods, and accessories.

The event slated Dec. 7-11 at SMX Mall of Asia is open to the public, gun enthusiasts, hobbyists, and sportsmen.

What makes this year’s edition from the past is AFAD’s dual role: not only as a catalyst for showcasing the latest in firearms but also as a significant player in shaping policy and promoting responsible gun ownership.

AFAD aims to influence the narrative surrounding firearms, elevating it from a mere trade show to a forum for discussing policies that impact the industry.

Also Topacio emphasized AFAD’s commitment to navigating the regulatory landscape.

The show opened at 10:00 am with no less than Sen. Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa leading an array of distinguish guests from  the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other agencies concerned.

One distinctive aspect of AFAD’s role is its active participation in policy advocacy. The organization seeks to be a voice in developing regulations and policies that govern the firearms industry.