Customs Proceedings: Seizure and Forfeiture Proceedings and Appeal Process

BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University

Customs Administration Department
Customs Proceedings
SEiZure and Forfeiture proceedings and

appeal process
CAO 10-2020
MS. FREYA JOY A. CALALUAN, LCB

Instructor
CUS 312: Customs Proceedings
CAO 10-2020
Section 3. Definition of
Terms.
 Common Carrier — shall refer to persons, corporations, firms, or association engaged
in the business of carrying or transporting passengers or goods or both, by land, water
or air, for compensation, offering their services to the public.
 Constructive Customs Custody — shall refer to the situation where, falling short of physical
seizure or possession, the Customs Officers and the owner of the goods enter into a written
agreement after the inventory to the effect that the goods, subject of a Letter of Authority
(LOA), shall not be removed or disposed of pending disposition or resolution on the issue of
whether proper payment of duties and taxes has been made.
CAO 10-2020
 Decisions Adverse to the Government — shall refer to the disposition of the main
forfeiture case based on merits, which resolves that there is no violation of the law that
will warrant the Forfeiture of the seized articles, and consequently allows the release of
the articles subject of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) without payment of
additional duties and taxes, interests, penalties and/or surcharges.
 Deputized Officer — shall refer to officers or members of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) or other selected national law enforcement agencies covered by a written
order signed by the Commissioner of Customs authorizing them to assist in the exercise of
customs police authority, particularly the power to search, seize, and arrest in specified
areas outside of customs premises.
CAO 10-2020
 Forfeiture — shall refer to the acquisition of ownership by the government for an

established violation of CMTA as a result of the forfeiture proceedings.
 Fraud — shall refer to acts knowingly, voluntarily and intentionally committed or omitted
which prejudice the interest of the government, e.g. submitting fake or spurious document,
making material untruthful statement(s) or committing any other analogous act(s) or
omission(s).
 Held Baggage Receipt (HBR) — shall refer to a receipt issued by a customs officer
acknowledging that the baggage is temporarily held in custody by the Bureau for
undeclared dutiable goods and/or declared dutiable goods pending payment of duties and
taxes, verification of documents, or compliance with customs laws, rules and regulations.
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 Interlocutory Order — shall refer to the orders of the District Collector or

Commissioner involving incidental matters that does not dispose of the case completely
but leaves something to be decided upon.
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 Misclassification — shall refer to the
1. use of insufficient or wrong description of the goods or

2. use of erroneous tariff heading/s and sub-heading/s
• resulting in deficiency between the duty and tax that should have been paid and the
duty and tax actually paid; and/or
• to avoid compliance with government regulations related to the entry of Regulated,

Prohibited or Restricted goods into Philippine Customs territory.
CAO 10-2020
 Misdeclaration — shall refer to a false, untruthful, erroneous or inaccurate declaration

as to quantity, quality, description, weight or measurement of the goods
resulting in deficiency between the duty and tax that should have been paid and the duty
and tax actually paid; and/or
to avoid compliance with government regulations related to the entry of Regulated,

Prohibited or Restricted goods into Philippine customs territory.
 There is Misdeclaration as to the Quantity of Goods when there is a difference in the

number of the Goods as declared in the Goods Declaration and the quantity as found
after physical examination of the Goods.
CAO 10-2020
 There is Misdeclaration as to the Quality of Goods when there is a difference in the

characteristics of the Goods as declared in the Goods Declaration and the quality as found after
physical examination of the Goods (e.g. declared as USED but found out as BRAND NEW or
declared as Off-Quality, Remnants Fabrics but found as Whole, First Class, Best Quality
Fabrics, among others).
 There is Misdeclaration as to Description of Goods when there is a difference in the descriptive

nature and identity of the Goods as declared in the Goods Declaration and the description as
found after physical examination of the Goods (e.g. product code, item code, make, model,
series, displacement, version, among others).
 There is Misdeclaration as to the Weight of Goods when there is a discrepancy in the actual
weight as declared in the Goods Declaration and the weight as found after physical examination
and weighing of the Goods.
CAO 10-2020
 There is Misdeclaration as to the Measurement of Goods when there is a difference in

the size, length, width, height or volume of the Goods as declared in the Goods
Declaration and the measurement as found after physical examination of the Goods.
CAO 10-2020
 Undervaluation — shall refer to situation when the
1. declared value fails to disclose in full the price actually paid or payable; or any
dutiable adjustment to the price actually paid or payable; or
2. when an incorrect valuation method is used; or the valuation rules are not properly
observed;
resulting in a discrepancy in duty and tax to be paid between what is legally determined as
the correct value against the declared value.
CAO 10-2020
 Notice of Appeal — shall refer to a document evidencing an aggrieved party's intention

to seek redress to a Decision which shall indicate the parties to the appeal, specify the
judgment or final order on the merits or part thereof appealed from, and state the
material dates showing the timeliness of the appeal.
 Quashal — shall refer to a recall of a WSD when the ground for the issuance of thereof is
found to be non-existent or ceased to exist.
 Seizure — shall refer to the actual or constructive taking or bringing into custody the goods,
things or chattels by virtue of a WSD issued by the Collector of Customs for violation of the
CMTA.
CAO 10-2020
 Summary Proceedings — shall refer to an abbreviated administrative proceeding

wherein only position papers are required to be submitted in lieu of the conduct of a
formal hearing.
 Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) — shall refer to an order in writing, issued in the
name of the Republic of the Philippines, signed by the District Collector of Customs
directed to the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) or any Deputized Officer of a
national law enforcement agency, commanding him to seize any properties subject to
Forfeiture pursuant to Section 1113, Chapter 4, Title XI of the CMTA.
CAO 10-2020
Section 4. General
Provisions.
4.1. Properties Subject to Seizure & Forfeiture.
Goods. e. Unmanifested goods found on any vessel or aircraft, if manifest
therefor is required;
a. Goods which are fraudulently concealed in or removed
contrary to law from any public or private warehouse, f. Goods sought to be imported or exported without going through
container yard, or container freight station under customs a customs office, whether the act was consummated, frustrated, or
supervision; attempted;
b. Goods the importation or exportation is effected or
attempted contrary to law; g. Goods found in the baggage of a person arriving from abroad
c. Goods of prohibited importation or exportation; and undeclared by such person;
d. Goods which, in the opinion of the District Collector, have
been used or were entered to be used as instruments in the h. Goods sought to be imported or exported through a false
importation or exportation of prohibited goods; declaration or affidavit executed by the owner, importer, exporter,
or consignee concerning the importation of goods;
CAO 10-2020
i. Goods sought to be imported or exported on the strength of a false invoice or other document
executed by the owner, importer, exporter, or consignee concerning the importation or
exportation of such goods;
j. Goods sought to be imported or exported through any other practice or device contrary to law
by means of which such goods entered through a customs office to the prejudice of the
government;
k. Imported goods offered openly for sale or kept in storage, which were discovered in the
exercise of the Commissioner's power to inspect and visit pursuant to Section 224 of CMTA,
when proof of payment of duties and taxes cannot be presented after the lapse of fifteen (15)
days;
CAO 10-2020
Vehicle, vessel or aircraft. e. Any conveyance actually used for the transport of goods subject to
Forfeiture under the CMTA, with its equipage or trappings, and any
a. Any vehicle, vessel or aircraft, including cargo, which shall be vehicle similarly used, together with its equipment and
used unlawfully in the importation or exportation of goods; appurtenances. The mere conveyance of smuggled goods by such
transport vehicle shall be sufficient cause for outright Seizure; and
b. Any vehicle, vessel or aircraft used in conveying or
transporting smuggled goods in commercial quantities within
the Philippines; f. The vessel or aircraft of the owner, agent, master, pilot-in-command or
other responsible officer what is liable for any fine or penalty for
c. Any vessel engaging in the Coastwise Trade which shall have violation of this Act. In determining whether or not to seize a vessel or
on board goods of foreign growth, produce, or manufacture in aircraft, the Bureau shall take into account the amount of fine or
excess of the amount necessary for sea stores, without such penalty in relation to the commercial impact that because to
goods having been properly entered or legally imported; international trade by the seizure or detention as well as the value of
the vessel or aircraft.
d. Any vessel or aircraft into which shall be transferred cargo
unloaded contrary to law prior to the arrival of the importing
vessel or aircraft at the port of destination;
CAO 10-2020
Cargo, stores, or supplies of a vessel.
a. Any part of the cargo, stores, or supplies, including petroleum of a vessel or

aircraft arriving from a foreign port which is unloaded before arrival at the
vessel's or aircraft's port of destination and without authority from the customs
officer; and
b. Sea stores or aircraft stores adjudged by the District Collector to be excessive,

when the duties and taxes assessed thereon are not paid.
CAO 10-2020
Package and receptacles.
a. Any package of imported goods which is found upon examination to contain

goods not specified in the invoice or goods declaration including all other
packages purportedly containing imported goods similar to those declared in the
invoice or goods declaration to be the contents of the misdeclared package; and
b. Boxes, cases, trunks, envelopes, and other containers of whatever character used
as receptacle or as device to conceal goods or are so designed as to conceal the
character of such goods.
CAO 10-2020
4.2. Conditions for Forfeiture.
4.2.1. The Forfeiture of goods shall be effected only when any of the following
circumstances exist:
a. The goods are in the custody or within the jurisdiction of customs officers;
b. The goods are in the possession or custody of or subject to the control of the importer,
exporter, original owner, consignee, agent of another person effecting the importation,
entry or exportation in question; or
c. The goods are in the possession or custody of or subject to the control of persons who
shall receive, conceal, buy, sell, transport the same, or aid in any of such acts, with
knowledge that the goods were imported or were subject of an attempt to import or
export contrary to law.
CAO 10-2020
4.2.2. Seized cargoes, stores, or supplies of a vessel or aircraft

arriving from a foreign port which were unloaded before
arrival at the vessels or aircraft's port of final destination
without authority from the customs officer shall be forfeited,
except if the unloading was due to accident, stress of weather,
or other necessity and is subsequently approved by the
District Collector;
CAO 10-2020
4.2.3. Vehicles, vessels or aircrafts used in carrying smuggled goods in Commercial

Quantity shall be forfeited except if all of the following conditions are present:
a. It is a Common Carrier;
b. It has not been chartered for purposes of conveying and transporting persons or cargo. As
used in this CAO, a charter shall refer to a contract by which an entire vessel, aircraft or
vehicle, or some principal part there of, is let by the owner to another person for a specified
time or use which has the effect of transferring the control on both the vessel, aircraft or
vehicle and its crew to the lessee; and
c. The owner or agent at that time of Seizure has no knowledge of and participation in the
unlawful act.
CAO 10-2020
However, a prima facie presumption against such vehicles, vessel or aircraft shall
exist under any of the following circumstances:
a. If conveyance has been used for smuggling before;
b. If the owner is not in the business for which the conveyance is generally used;
and
c. If the owner is not financially in a position to own such conveyance.

CAO 10-2020
Section 5. Seizure and Forfeiture of Imported Goods pursuant to the

Commissioner's Power to Inspect and Visit..
The Commissioner or any customs officer who is authorized in writing by the Commissioner, may demand evidence of
payment of duties and taxes on imported goods openly for sale or kept in storage.
Presentation of the Proof of Payment of Duties and Taxes within the fifteen (15) day period. During the said period, the goods
shall be placed under Constructive Customs Custody provided that the same may be released if any of the following documents
are presented and verified:
5.1.1. Proof of payment of correct duties and taxes or proof of exemption from payment of duties and taxes;
5.1.2. Proof of local purchase and payment of correct duties and taxes by the original importer; or
5.1.3. Proof that the goods were locally produced or manufactured.
In the event that the interested party fails to produce such evidence within the said fifteen (15) day period, the goods shall be
seized and subjected to forfeiture proceedings.
CAO 10-2020
5.2. A Warrant of Seizure and Detention has been issued.
5.2.1. The goods seized may be released to the owner under the following circumstances:
a. Proof of exemption from payment of duties and taxes, or

proof of payment of correct duties and taxes were
If the owner cannot present proof of local purchase, It is
presented and are found to be authentic and in order; presumed that he is the importer of the goods in his
possession.
b. Proof of local purchase and payment of correct duties However, if the owner can overcome such presumption
and taxes by the original importer were presented and provided that all the conditions stated in Section 14.4 of
are found to be authentic and in order; this Order are complied with, the goods may be released
provided that an offer to settle the case by payment of
c. Proof was presented that the goods were locally produced
the redemption value of the goods shall have been made
or manufactured; or Voluntary payment of duties and
taxes, provided that claimant presented a proof of local
and accepted.
purchase.
CAO 10-2020
5.3. In all cases, the release of the goods seized pursuant to Section 224
of the CMTA shall be subject to the clearance of the Commissioner,
provided that:
5.3.1. The goods are not prohibited;
5.3.2. The necessary permits and licenses are presented in case of

restricted or regulated goods ; and
5.3.3. The release of the goods is not contrary to law.

CAO 10-2020
Section 6. Issuance & Service of Warrant of Seizure and Detention.
6.1. Authority to Issue a Warrant of Seizure and Detention.
The District Collector exercising territorial jurisdiction over

the location of the seized goods shall have the original and
exclusive authority to issue the WSD.
CAO 10-2020
6.2. Partial Seizure of the Shipment. If the offense relates only to a part or portion of
a shipment, only that part shall be seized or detained, provided that the District
Collector is satisfied that the remainder of the shipment was not used, directly or
indirectly, in the commission of the offense.
However, any package of imported goods which is found upon examination to

contain goods not specified in the invoice or goods declaration including all other
packages purportedly containing imported goods similar to those declared in the
invoice or goods declaration to be the contents of the misdeclared package, shall be
subject to seizure and forfeiture.
CAO 10-2020
6.3. Contents of the Warrant of Seizure and Detention. A WSD shall indicate the following
information:
6.3.1. Docket Number;

6.3.2. Collection District;
6.3.3. Alleged violation(s) of the CMTA and other related laws and regulations;
6.3.4. Description and quantity of the property sought to be seized;
6.3.5. For vessels, aircrafts, and/or other conveyances the Registry Number, if
available;
6.3.6. Consignee, owner(s) and/or possessor of the property sought to be seized, if
known;
6.3.7. Location of the goods to be seized; and
6.3.8. Date issued.
CAO 10-2020
Warrant of Seizure and

Detention
CAO 10-2020
6.4. Determination of Probable Cause.

The existence of probable cause to warrant the issuance of a WSD shall be determined by the District
Collector within five (5) working days, or two (2) working days in case of Perishable Goods, from receipt of
recommendation for issuance of a WSD.
However, the District Collector may, on meritorious circumstances, conduct Summary Proceedings as
maybe deemed necessary for the determination of the existence of probable cause.
If a Release Order is issued for an alerted shipment, the District Collector shall immediately transmit the
records of the case to the Commissioner for clearance and approval.
The Commissioner shall within forty-eight (48) hours or twenty-four(24) hours, if the goods are perishable,
from receipt of the records of the alerted shipment, review the findings of the District Collector.
CAO 10-2020
When no Decision is made by the Commissioner within the prescribed period, the
alerted imported goods shall be deemed released.
Accordingly, the subject Alert Order shall be lifted by the issuing authority upon the
affirmation of the Commissioner of the Release Order or the lapse of the period to
review.
If the Commissioner issues an Order reversing the Release Order of the District
Collector before the lapse of the period to review, the same shall be referred to the
District Collector for the issuance of the appropriate WSD.
CAO 10-2020
6.5. Service of Warrant of Seizure and Detention. The District Collector shall immediately direct the
Enforcement and Security Service to serve the WSD within three (3) working days from its issuance:
6.5.1. To the customs warehouseman or wharfinger and the CFW or CBW operator if the goods are
still in customs custody; and
6.5.2. To the owner of the goods or his authorized representative. For the purpose of serving the
WSD, the importer, consignee, named in the bill of lading or airway bill, or possessor shall be deemed
the owner of the goods. If the owner is unknown, with insufficient address, or a foreign entity or
individual, service shall be effected by posting of the WSD by the ESS in the bulletin board of the
concerned collection district office, and by electronic posting through the BOC website, or printed
publication, for fifteen (15) days.
CAO 10-2020
6.6. Return of Service of Warrant. The ESS or duly deputized

officer tasked to serve the WSD shall submit to the District
Collector a return within twenty-four (24) hours from the service
thereof as specified in this CAO.
Failure to submit the required return within the time prescribed

period shall subject the defaulting officer to appropriate
administrative charges and penalties in accordance with the
pertinent civil service rules and regulations.
CAO 10-2020
Section 7. Custody over Seized Goods.

Upon service of the WSD, the ESS or duly deputized officer shall immediately seize the goods, either
physically or constructively, and turn over the same to the District Collector concerned through the
Auction and Cargo Disposal Division (ACDD) or its equivalent unit, unless otherwise provided under
existing laws, rules and regulations.
Notwithstanding the physical and/or constructive turnover of seized goods to the ACDD, the ESS and
ACDD shall jointly secure and safekeep the seized goods.
The District Collector shall immediately cause the inventory and examination of the seized goods.
CAO 10-2020
Section 8. Custody of Seized Goods requiring Immediate Turn-over to

Regulating Agencies.
Seized goods requiring immediate turn-over to regulating agencies as
required under existing laws, rules and regulations shall immediately be
delivered to the concerned agencies, such as but not limited to the
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau
of Animal Industry and Department of Environment and Natural
Resources.
CAO 10-2020
Section 9. Forfeiture Proceedings.

9.1. The Bureau shall exercise exclusive original jurisdiction over all Forfeiture cases under
the CMTA.
9.2. The venue of forfeiture proceedings shall be at the Law Division of the Collection
District which issued the WSD. For Collection Districts without Law Divisions, the venue
shall be at the Office of the District Collector. However, the District Collector may authorize
the conduct of hearing.
9.3. If the subject shipment involved has been sufficiently established to be prohibited, the
same shall be ipso facto forfeited in favor of the government.
CAO 10-2020
9.4. If, within fifteen (15) calendar days after service of warrant and due notice, no
owner or agent can be found or appears before the District Collector, the seized
goods shall be forfeited ipso facto in favor of the government to be disposed of in
accordance with the CMTA.
9.5. The Bureau shall, in accordance with international standards, utilize

information and communications technology (ICT) in managing the recordation of
cases and the dissemination and utilization of resolutions or Decisions in forfeiture
cases.
CAO 10-2020
Section 10. Pleadings, Notices and Appearances.

10.1. All pleadings shall be filed personally, by registered mail, or private courier service, with the
appropriate Law Division or Office of the District Collector. In addition, soft copies of pleadings shall also
be submitted simultaneously either by electronic mail or in an external drive.
10.2. In the event that the pleadings are sent by private courier service, the date of receipt by the Law
Division or Office of the District Collector shall be considered as the date of filing.
10.3. Pleadings filed beyond the reglementary period shall be considered as mere scrap of paper.
10.4. Where WSDs are issued by the District Collector involving the same consignee, commodity and
violation, these cases may be —consolidated. In case where two (2) hearing officers are assigned, the same
shall be consolidated with the lower/lowest docket number.
CAO 10-2020
10.5. Upon motion, the District Collector, on just and equitable grounds, may allow separate
proceedings for seizure case involving several claimants and several subject matters.
10.6. A lawyer appearing in any forfeiture case must be duly authorized by the claimant. All
pleadings and motions submitted by a lawyer appearing for the claimant must indicate his/her office
address, electronic mail address, Attorney's Roll Number and Professional Tax Receipt (PTR)
Numbers and Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) compliance.
10.7. In case the claimant is a juridical entity, it may authorize aresponsible officer of the company to
appear on its behalf.
CAO 10-2020
10.8. For individual claimants of goods of small value, a licensed customs broker or his authorized
representative may be allowed to appear on his behalf. Goods of small value cover those with value of
less than fifty thousand pesos (Php50,000.00) which are cleared through an informal entry process.
10.9. An attorney-in-fact appearing in any forfeiture case must be duly authorized by the
claimant.10.10. Authorization issued by claimant currently abroad must be duly authenticated by the
appropriate Consular Office.
10.11. A party appearing without proper authorization from the claimant for two (2) successive
hearings shall be considered as in default and authorize the presentation of the evidence ex parte.
CAO 10-2020
10.12. Any change or withdrawal of counsel or authorized representative shall be

made in accordance with the Rules of Court.
10.13. Notice of Hearing shall be served by personal service or, if not practicable by
reason of distance and lack of personnel to effect personal service, by private courier
service; or posting in the bulletin board of the Law Division or equivalent office of
the concerned Collection District for unknown claimants, within sufficient address
or foreign claimants. Proof of such service shall be attached to the record of the case.
CAO 10-2020
Section 11. Designation of Hearing Officer and Prosecutor.

11.1. Immediately from issuance of the WSD, the District Collector shall endorse the same to the Law
Division for the assignment of a Hearing Officer.
11.2. The District Collector may conduct a hearing or may designate any lawyer assigned to the
Collection District as a Hearing Officer. If there is no lawyer assigned in the Collection District, the
District Collector shall request for a Hearing Officer from the Legal Service, within two (2) days
from the issuance of the WSD.
11.3. In all cases, the District Collector shall request a Government Prosecutor from the Legal
Service within two (2) days from issuance of the WSD.
CAO 10-2020
Section 12. Hearing Proper.

12.1. The Hearing Officer shall immediately set the hearing of the forfeiture case upon receipt of the case folder
or the copy of the WSD. Clarificatory hearing/s may be conducted by the Hearing Officer as may be deemed
necessary.
12.2. After termination of the hearing, the Hearing Officer shall require the claimant to submit its verified
Position Paper, within five (5)days from date of last hearing, copy furnished the Government Prosecutor.
12.3. Within five (5) days from receipt of the Position Paper, the Government Prosecutor shall file its Comment,
copy furnished the claimant. The claimant may file a verified Reply within three (3)days from receipt thereof,
copy furnished the Government Prosecutor. After submission of the last pleading the case will be submitted for
resolution.
12.4. The District Collector shall render a Decision within thirty (30) days or ten (10) days in case of Perishable
Goods, upon the submission of the case for resolution.
CAO 10-2020
Section 13. Prohibited Pleadings and Motions.

The following pleadings and motions shall not be allowed and acted upon by the Law Division or
Office of the District Collector:
13.1. Motion for Postponement, , except if it is based on Acts of God or force majeure;
13.2. Motion for Reconsideration;
13.3. Motion for Extension of Time to File Pleadings;
13.4. Motion to Quash/Recall/Lift/Set-aside or any other similar motion, except as authorized in
Section 14.1 of this CAO;
13.5. Motion to Suspend/Hold in Abeyance Forfeiture Proceedings; and
13.6. Motion to Reopen.
CAO 10-2020
Section 14. Quashal/Recall of WSD.
The WSD may be quashed under any of the following grounds:
a. In case of goods seized pursuant to the power of the Commissioner to inspect and visit, the
claimant was able to submit proof as required under Section5.1. of this Order.
b. The District Collector issuing the WSD has no territorial jurisdiction over the seized goods,
without prejudice to the issuance of the WSD by the District Collector having territorial
jurisdiction thereof;
c. When the concerned regulatory agency, in cases of regulated goods, has issued the necessary
clearances or licenses in accordance with its governing laws and regulations.
CAO 10-2020
14.1.2. When to File Motion to Quash/Recall.
The importer or its authorized representative may file a verified Motion

to Quash/Recall the WSD at any time prior to the completion of
presentation of his evidence. Motions to Lift, Recall or Set-aside the
WSD shall be deemed as a Motion to Quash.
CAO 10-2020
14.1.3. Resolution on Motion to Quash. The motion to quash shall be resolved by the District Collector within
fifteen(15) working days from the date of submission of the said matter for resolution.
In case the District Collector allows the Quashal of the WSD, he shall seek clearance from the Commissioner by
transmitting the entire records of the case within two(2) working days from the date of issuance of the order.
The Commissioner shall within thirty (30) working days, or ten (10) working days for Perishable Goods, from
receipt of the entire case records, issue clearance to the order of the District Collector allowing the Quashal of
the WSD.
The order of the District Collector shall be deemed affirmed when no action is made by the Commissioner, after
the lapse of the thirty (30) working days, or ten(10) working days period in case of Perishable Goods. If the
Commissioner timely reverses the order of the District Collector allowing the Quashal of the WSD, the same
shall be remanded to the District Collector for the continuation of the Forfeiture proceedings. The Order of the
District Collector and the Commissioner denying the Motion to Quash shall be considered as Interlocutory
Orders.
CAO 10-2020
14.2. Payment of Surcharge for Undeclared Baggage.

Undeclared dutiable goods brought by any person arriving in
the Philippines allowed when:
14.2.1. Importation is not contrary to law; and

14.2.2. The surcharge of thirty percent (30%) of the Landed
Cost in addition to all duties, taxes and other charges due shall
be paid.
CAO 10-2020
14.3. Settlement of Forfeiture Cases. Subject to the approval of the

Commissioner, the District Collector may allow the settlement by
payment of fine or the redemption of forfeited goods, during the course
of the forfeiture proceeding. However, the Commissioner may accept the
settlement by redemption of any forfeiture case on appeal. The offer of
settlement shall be made in writing and duly sworn under oath, and
addressed to the District Collector or office of the Commissioner. Offer
of settlement may either be through payment of fine or payment of
redemption value.
CAO 10-2020
14.4. Settlement by Payment of Fine or Redemption of Forfeited Goods. Settlement by payment of

fine or redemption of forfeited goods may be allowed under the following circumstances:
14.4.1. When there is no Fraud attributable to the importer, consignee or owner;
14.4.2. When the goods are not absolutely prohibited; and
14.4.3. When the release of the goods is not contrary to law. Settlement by payment of fine shall not
be allowed when the discrepancy in duties and taxes to be paid between what is determined and what
is declared amounts to more than thirty percent (30%).
In case of settlement by fine, the owner, importer, exporter, or consignee or agent shall pay the
amount of fine equivalent to thirty percent (30%) of the Total Landed Cost. In case of settlement by
redemption, the owner, importer, exporter, or consignee or agent shall pay the redeemed value
equivalent to one hundred percent (100%) of the Total Landed Cost.
CAO 10-2020
14.5. Effects of Settlement by Payment of Fine or Redemption.

Upon payment of the fine or redemption value, the goods shall
be released and all liabilities which may attach to the goods
shall be discharged without prejudice to the filing of
administrative or criminal case against the importer, owner or
authorized representative. The payment of fine or redemption
value shall be without prejudice to fines and charges to be
imposed by the port authorities.
CAO 10-2020
14.6. Decision of the District Collector. The District Collector shall render a Decision within thirty (30) working
days from the time the case is submitted for decision. The Decision of the District Collector shall include a
declaration of Forfeiture or release, the imposition of a fine or redemption of the goods, or such other action as
may be proper. Copies of the Decision rendered by the District Collector shall be served to all concerned parties
within five (5) working days from the date of issuance. Such service shall preferably be by personal service or, if
not practicable, by registered mail. If the importer is a registered importer of the Bureau of Customs, service
may also be through electronic mail at the given email address of the importer. Proof of such service shall be
attached to the record of the case. Decisions by the District Collector in case an Offer of Settlement was made
shall be subject to clearance and review of the Commissioner. Provided, that the period to resolve shall not run
until the complete records of the case is received by the Office of the Commissioner: Provided, finally that the
same shall not be subject to automatic review of the Secretary of Finance as provided under this CAO.
CAO 10-2020
Section 15. Referral to Import Assessment Service (IAS).
During appeal or automatic review, Legal Service shall refer the

assessment made by the District Collector to IAS for its review of the
valuation and classification with corresponding computation of duties
and taxes and other charges or penalties, if any. The IAS shall submit its
recommended value within the period three (3) hours, otherwise the
recommended settlement or redemption value by the District Collector
stands.
CAO 10-2020
Section 16. Appeal to the Commissioner.

16.1. The aggrieved importer or exporter or any stakeholder directly affected by the adverse Decision
of the District Collector may appeal the Decision by filing a Notice of Appeal with a corresponding
Memorandum on Appeal within fifteen (15) days or five (5) days in case of Perishable Goods, from
receipt thereof.
16.2. Upon receipt of the Notice of Appeal and Memorandum on Appeal with proof of payment of the
requisite appeal fee, the District Collector shall immediately transmit all the records of the
proceedings to the Appellate Division, Legal Service within five (5)working days, from the receipt of
the appeal. A soft copy of the Decision shall also be sent to the Appellate Division, Legal Service via
electronic mail at [email protected].
CAO 10-2020
16.3. An appeal filed beyond the prescribed period or an

appeal filed without the payment of the required appeal fee or
payment of the appeal fee beyond the period to file an appeal
shall be dismissed.
16.4. The filing of the Notice of Appeal without the

corresponding Memorandum on Appeal shall likewise be
dismissed.
CAO 10-2020
Section 17. Automatic Review.
17.1. The Commissioner shall automatically review any Decision by the

District Collector adverse to the government. The District Collector
shall elevate the entire records of the case to the Appellate Division
within five (5) working days from the issuance of the Decision. A soft
copy of the Decision shall also be sent to the Appellate Division, Legal
Service via electronic mail [email protected].
CAO 10-2020
17.2. When no Decision is rendered within the prescribed period or

when a Decision adverse to the government is rendered by the
Commissioner involving goods with Free on Board (FOB) or Free
Carrier (FCA) value of ten million pesos (Php 10,000,000.00) or more,
the records of the Decision of the Commissioner, or of the District
Collector under review, as the case may be, shall be elevated to the
Secretary of Finance within five (5) working days from the lapse of the
prescribed period to resolve or from the date of issuance of Decision, for
review by the Secretary of Finance.
CAO 10-2020
17.3. The Secretary of Finance shall review the Decision of the

District Collector or the Commissioner. The Decision issued by
the Secretary of Finance, whether or not a Decision was
rendered by the Commissioner within thirty (30) days, or
within ten (10) days in the case of Perishable Goods, from
receipt of the records, shall be final upon the Bureau, subject
to appeal to the Court of Tax Appeals.

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Customs Proceedings: Seizure and Forfeiture Proceedings and Appeal Process

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BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY

The National Engineering University

SEiZure and Forfeiture proceedings and

MS. FREYA JOY A. CALALUAN, LCB

 Forfeiture — shall refer to the acquisition of ownership by the government for an

 Interlocutory Order — shall refer to the orders of the District Collector or

 Misclassification — shall refer to the

1. use of insufficient or wrong description of the goods or

• to avoid compliance with government regulations related to the entry of Regulated,

 Misdeclaration — shall refer to a false, untruthful, erroneous or inaccurate declaration

to avoid compliance with government regulations related to the entry of Regulated,

 There is Misdeclaration as to the Quantity of Goods when there is a difference in the

 There is Misdeclaration as to the Quality of Goods when there is a difference in the

 There is Misdeclaration as to Description of Goods when there is a difference in the descriptive

 There is Misdeclaration as to the Measurement of Goods when there is a difference in

 Undervaluation — shall refer to situation when the

 Notice of Appeal — shall refer to a document evidencing an aggrieved party's intention

 Summary Proceedings — shall refer to an abbreviated administrative proceeding

Cargo, stores, or supplies of a vessel.

a. Any part of the cargo, stores, or supplies, including petroleum of a vessel or

b. Sea stores or aircraft stores adjudged by the District Collector to be excessive,

Package and receptacles.

a. Any package of imported goods which is found upon examination to contain

4.2. Conditions for Forfeiture.

4.2.2. Seized cargoes, stores, or supplies of a vessel or aircraft

4.2.3. Vehicles, vessels or aircrafts used in carrying smuggled goods in Commercial

a. If conveyance has been used for smuggling before;

c. If the owner is not financially in a position to own such conveyance.

Section 5. Seizure and Forfeiture of Imported Goods pursuant to the

5.2. A Warrant of Seizure and Detention has been issued.

a. Proof of exemption from payment of duties and taxes, or

5.3.1. The goods are not prohibited;

5.3.2. The necessary permits and licenses are presented in case of

5.3.3. The release of the goods is not contrary to law.

Section 6. Issuance & Service of Warrant of Seizure and Detention.

6.1. Authority to Issue a Warrant of Seizure and Detention.

The District Collector exercising territorial jurisdiction over

However, any package of imported goods which is found upon examination to

6.3.1. Docket Number;

Warrant of Seizure and

6.4. Determination of Probable Cause.

6.6. Return of Service of Warrant. The ESS or duly deputized

Failure to submit the required return within the time prescribed

Section 7. Custody over Seized Goods.

Section 8. Custody of Seized Goods requiring Immediate Turn-over to

Section 9. Forfeiture Proceedings.

9.5. The Bureau shall, in accordance with international standards, utilize

Section 10. Pleadings, Notices and Appearances.

10.12. Any change or withdrawal of counsel or authorized representative shall be

Section 11. Designation of Hearing Officer and Prosecutor.

Section 12. Hearing Proper.

Section 13. Prohibited Pleadings and Motions.

Section 14. Quashal/Recall of WSD.

The WSD may be quashed under any of the following grounds:

14.1.2. When to File Motion to Quash/Recall.

The importer or its authorized representative may file a verified Motion

14.2. Payment of Surcharge for Undeclared Baggage.

14.2.1. Importation is not contrary to law; and

14.3. Settlement of Forfeiture Cases. Subject to the approval of the