Marines to join PNSA shootfest

MANILA, Philippines - A demo show by the crack shooters of the Philippine Marine Corps will highlight the first-ever 2011 Sniper Shooting Competition set Sunday at the Taytay Tactical Rifle Range in Rizal.

Philippine National Shooting Association (PNSA) executive director Larry Paredes said they have already come to terms with the Marines Corps, led by its Commandant Major Gen. Rustico Guerrero, with regards to its involvement in the four-day event that aims to increase awareness in the sport.

While some of the top Marine shooters will showcase their marksmanship in the 1km target, others will compete as guests.

PNSA president and Harbour Centre CEO Mikee Romero said the participation and support of the Marine Corps will provide the challenge to the civilian participants and add glamour to the event.

“I am thankful to Maj. Gen. Guerrero for allowing his elite unit to demonstrate their skills and some of them take part in our event. This is one step to attract more shooters,” said Romero, who also thanked Taytay Mayor Joric Gacula and the Rizal shooters association for hosting the event.

The event, according to tournament director Boy Banaag, will start with the small bore rifle (.22) on Sunday while the proficiency demonstration of the Marine Corps and the competition in the centerpiece .223 (high-powered rifle) are slated Aug. 26-28.

“This will be the first time that the Marines are going to show their stuff, including their equipment and other gears,” said Romero, adding that recruitment booths will be set up for the purpose of recruiting future Marines.

The Marine shooters are acknowledged as the best in the lot, having produced several bemedalled athletes like Bartolome Teyab, Julius Valdez and Andres Maer. Teyab was a three-time SEA Games champion while Valdez reigned in the biennial regional event twice.

Among the favorites in the Open division, according to PNSA sec-gen Col. Danilo Gamboa, are Randy Paronda, Galahad Vicencio, Mark Tan, Louie Gonzales and Jun Magno. In the standard are Sony Alonso, Boy Banaag, Cris Reyes and Niño Aspe.

For additional information, send queries at [email protected] or contact Lanie Halili at 0927-589-9133.