CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The 2nd Councilor Alex Patio Invitational Shootfest Cup reels off Saturday and goes on until September 27 at the Pampanga Shooters Association (PSA) Firing Range in Barangay Maimpis in this city with an expected 300 participants vying for several titles and showing off their skills in the shotgun and handgun competitions.

According to Patio, the two-day shootfest, conducted in cooperation with the PSA and the Philippine Practical Shooters Association (PPSA), is open to all gun owners and enthusiasts with licensed firearms.

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“This is not just a shootfest but an activity where we want to instill and promote to all participants from the region responsible gun ownership, discipline and becoming law abiding citizens,” Patio told Sun.Star.

He added that such an activity, coupled with enhancing the shooting skills of responsible gun owners, has become a deterrent to crime.

“If lawless elements know you have a gun and know to use it, medyo nangingilag at umiiwas sila so the crime is averted,” Patio said.

He added that responsible gun ownership and discipline are essential for an enthusiast as these allow one to be more careful and keen at all times.

“In fact, we have this creed at PSA and PPSA that goes: 'It’s better to have a gun and not use it, than to have none when you need it',” Patio said.