Sen. Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa on Thursday commended the Association of Firearms and Ammunitions Dealers of the Philippines, Inc. (AFAD) for continuing to educate Filipino gun owners through its yearly arms show.
“I’m grateful to AFAD for organizing this one-of-a-kind arms show. AFAD is trustworthy and distinguished organization. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Peace and Order, I supported whatever its plans and program para sa kapakanan ng industriya. Sabihan lang nila kung ano ang maganda para sa isdustriya, suportahan ko yan sa Senado para maging batas. Basta antayin ko yung mga plan nila,” said Dela Rosa during the opening of the AFAD-organized 28th Defense and Sporting Arms Show at the Mega Trade Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Over 40 booths showcasing the new line of world-class Filipino-made and imported guns, ammunitions and paraphernalia were installed at the venue while AFAD, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other government agencies concerned, conducted educational seminars on responsible gun-ownership and help desk for licensing and renewal.
Dela Rosa said he sees a great increase in the number of gun-owners as the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on the amended provisions on Republic Act. No.11766 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act 203) are already in effect.
“Makikita mo sa shooting range, babae, lalaki may edad na, nag-eensayo sa pag-baril. Expected natin do-doble ito lalo na at official na ang IRR sa amended RA 11766 na author ako at pinirmahan ni Presidente Duterte. Malaking tulong ito sa industirya ng paggawa ng baril,” added Dela Rosa.
The new law states that all licenses to possess a firearm, regardless of type or classification, and the registration of the firearm shall be renewed every five or 10 years, at the option of the licensee. The renewal date for both licenses to possess and registration of firearms shall be reckoned from the birthdate of the licensee unless sooner revoked or suspended.
The application for the renewal of the license or registration may be submitted to the Firearms and Explosives Office of the Philippine National Police (PNP) within six months before the expiration date of the license or registration of the firearm.
AFAD President Hagen Topacio expressed his gratitude to Dela Rosa who is a long-time supporter of AFAD program. His presence has always created an impact to audiences, gun-owners and afficionados.
“Blockbuster ang show lalo na pag alam nilang darating si Senator Bato Dela Rosa. The AFAD membership is always looking for programs and activities that will benefits the industry in general,” said Topacio, silver medalist in 2021 Southeast Asian Games clay shooting.
The show will run until Monday, Nov. 28.
