The 15th Tactical, Survival and Arms (TACS) Expo at the SMX Convention Center held from November 24 to 27 demonstrated why ARMSCOR Global Defense Inc. (AGDI) continues to be the Philippines’ leading manufacturer of firearms, ammunition and defense products.

Taking centerstage during the 4-day exhibit was an industrial robotic arm known as robotic sanding machine that took the attention of exhibitors and guests alike as it simulated sanding, a key process that requires precision and consistency in manufacturing a firearm.

According to SEVP and Deputy CEO Gina Angangco, it was the first time for AGDI to bring its state-of-the art robotics, conveyor systems and computerization for the public to see since the TACS Expo began in 2017 as an advocacy to educate Filipinos on defense, security and survival, and how to prepare themselves for emergencies and natural disasters.

In the message of Philipine National Police Chief PGen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. delivered by PNP Civil Security Group Director PMGen. Eden Ugale, he acknowledged the role of AGDI as a partner of the government particularly the PNP in working towards a “crime-free environment.”

The PNP chief also lauded AGDI’s previous LTOPF (License to Own and Possess Firearms) and PTCFOR (Permit to Carry Firearm Outside Residence) Caravan to help firearm holders secure proper licenses, saying that this initiative “signifies Armscor’s continued commitment towards minimizing illegal trading and importation of weaponry and the promotion of responsible firearm ownership in line with the PNP’s campaign against loose firearms.”

For his part, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Lt. Gen.Bartolome Vicente Bacarro shared in his message read by AFP Assistant J4 Col. Edward Caranto that one of the goals of the AFP is “the attainment of the objectives of the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program” which is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for unity.

Aside from big discounts on defense items, survival gear and local inventions such as solar generators, the expo also featured free seminars on a variety of topics that include responsible gun ownership, firearms safety handling, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, how to be streetsmart by identifying dangers and how to avoid them, flood survival and fire response, and earthquake stampede-proof evacuation tips.