In Photo: Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa graced the opening of the “25th Tactical, Survival, and Arms Expo 2025” at SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang in Davao City on Thursday, October 16. (Photo by Mark Cardona)
By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa renewed his call for responsible gun ownership and preparedness amid political and environmental challenges as he opened the 25th Tactical, Survival, and Arms Expo 2025 at SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang in Davao City on Thursday, October 16.
In his keynote address, Dela Rosa congratulated Armscor Philippines for organizing the milestone 25th edition of the annual event, describing it as a celebration of “innovation, marksmanship, discipline, and responsibility.”
Dela Rosa underscored that responsible firearm ownership complements, rather than threatens, public safety.
“Many people still associate gun ownership with danger and fear. But when they look closely at this expo and the community we have built, they will see that responsible firearm ownership is not an enemy of public safety — it is its partner,” Dela Rosa said.
The senator’s remarks came shortly after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vetoed his proposed amendment to the Firearms Law.
Despite the setback and his removal as chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, Dela Rosa said he remains steadfast in his advocacy.
“No politics can shade my passion. Like a true champion, I shake off the dust, I rise again — back to our shared target, as we always do. Eyes on the prize. They may veto the proposals, but my commitment will never waver,” the senator said.
Dela Rosa stressed that his campaign for responsible gun ownership transcends political positions or legislative outcomes, saying that the public will eventually understand how responsible ownership contributes to safety and security.
Armscor Global Defense Senior Executive Vice President and Deputy CEO Lt. Col. Gina G. Marie Angangco also addressed the opening ceremony, highlighting the expo’s preparedness theme in light of recent natural disasters.
“In the past weeks, we’ve witnessed earthquakes, typhoons, and floods,” Angangco said. “These aren’t just news stories — they’re reminders that disasters can strike anytime. That’s why we’re here: to prepare ourselves with equipment, skills, resilience, and readiness.”
Davao City Police Office acting chief Police Col. Mannan Caracas Muarip expressed full support for the event, calling it a vital platform for promoting security awareness and responsible firearm ownership.
He said the DCPO’s participation aligns with its Discipline, Action, Virtue, Accountability, and Order (D.A.V.A.O.) Policing Framework.
“With initiatives such as this, the Davao City Police Office continues to stand as a pillar of peace, partnership, and preparedness, ensuring that Davao City remains one of the country’s safest and most progressive cities,” Muarip said.
From October 16 to 19, the four-day expo features displays of firearms, tactical gear, and survival tools, alongside on-site services for firearm licensing and safety training.
Organized by Armscor Global Defense, Inc., the Tactical, Survival, and Arms Expo has grown into a national platform promoting responsible firearm use, public safety, and resilience — principles that Dela Rosa vowed will remain “right on target” in his continuing advocacy.
