Responsible gun ownership advocated through 4-day expo

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippine National Police-Civil Security Group (CSG) is pushing for improved processes of gun licensing and renewal across the country to prevent the proliferation of loose firearms.

CSG Deputy Chief Police Brigadier General Clint Bayacsan relayed this during the opening of the four-day Tactical, Survival, and Arms (TACS) Expo held yesterday at SM Seaside City Sky Hall.

In an interview with The Freeman, Bayacsan stressed the importance of stringent gun licensing procedures and the timely renewal of licenses as crucial steps towards ensuring public safety.

“We are encouraging the public na mag renew (of their gun license) kasi yun yung kinakatok natin diba for them to renew for us to reduce the number of loose firearms in the country,” said Bayacsan.

He cited two kinds of loose firearms—those that are not recorded by the Firearms and Explosive Office (FEO), and the unrenewed firearms.

Bayacsan said they aim to lessen the number of loose firearms by improving processes, including trying to fix their online system, which he admitted they are having quite a hard time dealing with.

But he assured that they are trying their best to address this to improve gun registration in the country as it is a necessity for better monitoring to curb illegal activities.

With this, the partnership with PNP and Armscor Global Defense Incorporated was established to further educate Cebuano gun owners on safety and security, disaster preparedness, and risk management.

Amscor and PNP organized the expo, which is a one-stop shop that does not only offer guns and ammunition, but also a series of lectures on what to prepare during a disaster, as well as an exhibition of military and police equipment used in operational duties.

“We believe that education and advocacy for security, safety, and disaster, risk management and preparedness is key to survival. Armscor is doing its share by organizing this tactical survival and expo in various cities around the country,” said Gina Marie Angangco, deputy CEO of Armscor Global Defense.

Applications for renewal of License to Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF), police clearance, and other government registrations is available during the four-day expo.

Present during the opening was Cebu City acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia who said that it is an opportunity for Cebuanos to indulge themselves in knowing more about legal possession of firearms.

“I’m very happy nga ilang gi hold diri ang ilang expo because it would be an opportunity for Cebuano to see the latest trends, latest equipments that has to do with peace and order, military gear, police gear whatever it is, ganahan kaayo ko,” said Garcia. — /ATO (FREEMAN)