TACS Expo: More than just a gun show

HUNGER GAMES. Kids enjoyed learning archery, slingshot and other traditional shooting sports. (Photo by Albert Anthony Abando/PNA photo)

MANILA – More than just showcasing their latest firearms, Armscor Global Defense taught citizens on survival tips in times of disaster during their Tactical, Survival and Arms Expo (TACS) at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura, Taguig City.

The expo, which ran from Feb. 22-25, showcased survival equipment and sustainability solutions that are essential in a disaster or calamity of major proportions that basic services like water and electricity might be interrupted or totally unavailable.

“This is more than just a gun show and more focus is given to disaster preparedness. Filipinos are now realizing the importance of being prepared if ever a major calamity strikes. We have survival products, camping and outdoor essentials and more importantly, seminars by experts in disaster preparedness and response plus an activity area where guests can try archery and other traditional weapons,” said Jhoana Ibay, Armscor Advertising and Promotions manager.

The TACS Expo also featured static display booths from the Philippine Navy (PN), Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Army (PA) disaster response teams which showcased their tools and rescue equipment and a processing booth of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (PNP-FEO) for those who wish to process their license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF).

Various outdoor and survival essentials like emergency lighting, thermal blankets, portable water filtration systems, solar power generation systems, security systems and safety equipment were available in addition to tactical equipment and firearms.

Among the major attractions at the TACS Expo are the free seminars on a variety of topics including first aid, survival tips for families, martial arts and street defense plus the activity area where guests can experience the thrill of archery, knife and axe throwing and slingshot plinking.

The expo showcased not only the company’s latest firearms but more importantly, survival equipment and sustainability solutions which are essential in a disaster or calamity of major proportions that basic services like water and electricity might be interrupted or totally unavailable.

“This is more than just a gun show and more focus is given to disaster preparedness. Filipinos are now realizing the importance of being prepared if ever a major calamity strikes. We have survival products, camping and outdoor essentials and more importantly, seminars by experts in disaster preparedness and response plus an activity area where guests can try archery and other traditional weapons,” according to Jhoana Ibay, Advertising and Promotions Manager of Armscor.

The TACS Expo also featured static display booths from the Philippine Navy (PN), Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Army (PA) disaster response teams which showcased their tools and rescue equipment and a processing booth of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (PNP-FEO) for those who wish to process their license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF).

Various outdoor and survival essentials like emergency lighting, thermal blankets, portable water filtration systems, solar power generation systems, security systems and safety equipment were available in addition to tactical equipment and firearms.

Among the major attractions at the TACS Expo are the free seminars on a variety of topics including first aid, survival tips for families, martial arts and street defense plus the activity area where guests can experience the thrill of archery, knife and axe throwing and slingshot plinking.

Ibay noted that TACS Expo attracted mostly civilians who brought their families along to attend the seminars and participated in mini-competitions at the archery and slingshot range.

“Unlike regular gun shows, we’re seeing a lot of parents having good clean fun at the activity area. Preparedness after all should be for the entire family. When more families are prepper-cultured, maybe we’ll be seeing less casualties should another major disaster occur,” she said.

For those who missed this event, Armscor Global Defense will take the TACS Expo to Cebu in June and then hold another one in Manila in November this year.