Following the unexpected passing of company President & CEO Martin Tuason, Armscor / Rock Island Armory has appointed Lisa Tuason as interim CEO for U.S. operations.
Tuason passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
“As a member of the Tuason family and a long-time steward of the company’s values, Lisa has played an integral role in supporting Armscor’s strategic direction for many years. Her appointment ensures continuity of leadership and preserves the family’s commitment to the legacy that began in 1905,” the company said in a media release.
“Martin devoted his entire life to our family, our company and the people who make Armscor what it is today,” said Tuason. “My brother believed deeply in doing things the right way — with honesty, with respect, and with a focus on the people who trust what we build. He carried forward our family’s legacy with pride, and we will continue to honor his vision by staying true to our roots, supporting our employees, and serving our customers with the same craftsmanship and integrity Martin championed every single day.
“Our leadership team is united in its commitment to moving the company forward. We will continue to serve our community of responsible firearm owners, strengthen our partnerships, and ensure that Armscor and Rock Island Armory remain trusted names around the world,” she added. “Martin’s hope was always that the next generation would take what was built and make it stronger. We will continue that work in his honor.”
Martin became president and CEO in 2012, continuing the Tuason family legacy that began over a century ago when his grandfather, Celso Tuason, transformed a small retail sporting goods store into Arms Corporation of the Philippines (Armscor) in 1952. Under Martin’s leadership, Armscor and Rock Island Armory expanded globally, establishing operations on six continents and becoming one of the Top 10 firearms manufacturers worldwide.
Throughout his tenure, Martin was credited with modernizing company operations, expanding manufacturing capabilities in the Philippines and the U.S. and overseeing automation initiatives that strengthened efficiency and innovation.
“His leadership helped the company achieve consistent double-digit growth and establish itself as a trusted name worldwide,” the company said in a media release.
Memorial arrangements will be shared privately with family and friends.
Images courtesy Armscor/Rock Island Armory
