Dela Rosa shoots for responsible gun ownership

MANILA, Philippines — The growth and development of the firearms manufacturing industry will all depend on the number of educated and responsible gun owners.

Thus, said Sen. Ronaldo “Bato” dela Rosa as he joined the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, Inc. (AFAD) in the fight against loose firearms, gun safety and responsible gun ownership.

“We must continue to educate our netizens about gun ownership. Ating i-propagate ng husto ang responsible gun ownership,” said Dela Rosa during the opening of the 29th AFAD Defense and Sporting Arms Show last Thursday at the SMX Convention in Pasay City.

Dela Rosa acknowledged the contribution of the firearms industry not just for creating jobs for Filipinos but also for the growth of the economy in general.

“Ilang mangagawa ang nakikinabang sa industirya na ito? Mula sa pag-gawa ng piyesa, accessories and paraphernalia. ‘Yung mga importer natin hindi biro ang naibabayad nilang tax. If the industry is getting better, the economy follows,” said Dela Rosa.

AFAD president Alaric Topacio expressed his warmest gratitude to Dela Rosa, other lawmakers, and different law enforcement agencies for supporting the industry and helping the local manufacturer and importer.

“Foremost in AFAD’s mission is to educate every Filipino not just the hobbyist, sportsmen, and private gun owners on how to be a responsible gun owner,” stressed Topacio.

The five-day event which runs until today offers huge product discounts from exhibitors.