Honesty is the Best Policy: Declaring Goods to Philippine Customs to Avoid Smuggling Charges

Navigating customs regulations can seem daunting, but transparency is your strongest defense. This case highlights the critical importance of accurately declaring all dutiable goods when entering the Philippines. Concealing items, even if not outright prohibited, can lead to serious smuggling charges under the Tariff and Customs Code. Always declare, and when in doubt, seek guidance to ensure full compliance and avoid legal repercussions.

G.R. NO. 165265, February 06, 2006

INTRODUCTION

Imagine returning home from a trip abroad, eager to unpack and relax. But what if a simple oversight at customs turns your homecoming into a legal nightmare? Maribel Jardeleza, a flight stewardess, faced this exact scenario when she arrived in the Philippines carrying jewelry from Singapore. This Supreme Court case, Jardeleza v. People, serves as a stark reminder of the stringent customs laws in the Philippines and the severe consequences of failing to declare dutiable goods.

Jardeleza was charged with smuggling for bringing in 20.1 kilograms of assorted gold jewelry without declaring it to customs. The central legal question was whether her actions constituted “fraudulent importation” under Section 3601 of the Tariff and Customs Code, even if the jewelry itself wasn’t illegal to possess. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores that it’s not just about what you bring into the country, but how you bring it in – transparency and proper declaration are paramount.

LEGAL CONTEXT: UNLAWFUL IMPORTATION AND THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE

The Philippine Tariff and Customs Code (TCC) is the primary law governing the importation and exportation of goods in the country. It aims to protect local industries, generate revenue through tariffs and duties, and prevent illegal trade. At the heart of this case are three key sections of the TCC: Sections 2505, 3601, and 3602.

Section 2505 deals with “Failure to Declare Baggage.” It states,

“Whenever any dutiable article is found in the baggage of any person arriving within the Philippines which is not included in the baggage declaration, such article shall be seized… unless it shall be established… that the failure to mention or declare said dutiable article was without fraud.”

This section outlines administrative penalties for undeclared goods, but crucially, it also explicitly states, “Nothing in this section shall preclude the bringing of criminal action against the offender,” paving the way for smuggling charges.

Section 3601 defines “Unlawful Importation,” stating:

“Any person who shall fraudulently import or bring into the Philippines… any article, contrary to law… shall be guilty of smuggling.”

This is the penal provision under which Jardeleza was charged. The key phrase here is “fraudulently import… any article, contrary to law.” The law specifies graduated penalties of fines and imprisonment based on the value of the smuggled goods, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.

Section 3602 lists “Various Fraudulent Practices Against Customs Revenue,” including making false declarations or using fraudulent practices to avoid paying proper duties. While Jardeleza wasn’t explicitly charged under this section, the Court considered her actions within its scope as evidence of fraudulent intent.

Essentially, these sections work together. Section 2505 addresses the initial failure to declare, Section 3602 details fraudulent practices, and Section 3601 defines and penalizes the crime of smuggling based on fraudulent importation “contrary to law,” which includes customs regulations requiring declaration.

CASE BREAKDOWN: THE FLIGHT STEWARDESS AND THE HIDDEN JEWELRY

Maribel Jardeleza, a seasoned flight stewardess for Philippine Airlines, arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from Singapore. Customs officials had received an “alert order” to monitor her flight, suspecting a jewelry courier. Upon arrival, Jardeleza went through the crew members’ lane, carrying two bags. Customs Examiner Estelita Nario asked Jardeleza if she had anything to declare. Jardeleza replied “No” and presented a blank Customs Declaration Form.

During inspection, Nario found three black leatherette envelopes hidden within a hanger bag, concealed beneath clothing and brochures. Inside these envelopes, ingeniously hidden beneath the lining, were packs of gold jewelry. The total weight of the jewelry was 20.1 kilograms, with an estimated value of over seven million pesos.

Jardeleza claimed she had verbally informed customs officers about the jewelry and requested a private examination room to avoid media attention. She argued that she intended to declare and pay duties but didn’t fill out the form because it was too small for the detailed list of jewelry. However, the prosecution presented evidence that Jardeleza explicitly denied having anything to declare and actively concealed the jewelry.

The case proceeded through the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Pasay City, which convicted Jardeleza of smuggling under Section 3601 of the TCC. She appealed to the Court of Appeals (CA), arguing that she should have been charged under Section 2505 (failure to declare baggage) and that the prosecution failed to prove fraudulent intent for smuggling under Section 3601. The CA affirmed the RTC’s decision, emphasizing the fraudulent concealment.

The Supreme Court ultimately upheld the conviction. Justice Callejo, writing for the Court, stated:

“Petitioner’s intentional concealment or nondisclosure that she had such jewelry items in the leatherette bags constituted fraud under Sections 3601 and 3602 of the TCC, aimed at depriving the government of customs revenue.”

The Court emphasized that Section 2505 does not define a crime but provides administrative remedies. Smuggling under Section 3601 is a distinct criminal offense. The Court found Jardeleza’s actions – denying declaration, hiding jewelry in concealed compartments, and using brochures as decoys – as clear indicators of fraudulent intent. The Court gave weight to the trial court’s assessment of witness credibility, particularly that of Customs Examiner Nario, whose testimony was deemed honest and reliable.

As the Supreme Court pointed out,

“If petitioner had no intention to fraudulently import the jewelries and defraud the government of the duties/taxes due thereon, she should have indicated in the Customs Declaration Form that she was carrying jewelries valued at more than US$350.00, and accomplished the Customs Entry Form. Petitioner failed to do so. She even deliberately concealed her possession of the jewelries, and told Nario that she had nothing to declare.”

The Supreme Court denied Jardeleza’s petition, affirming her conviction for smuggling.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: WHAT THIS CASE MEANS FOR YOU

Jardeleza v. People offers crucial lessons for anyone traveling to the Philippines, particularly those carrying valuable or dutiable goods. It clarifies the scope of smuggling under the TCC and highlights the importance of honest and complete customs declarations.

This case underscores that “contrary to law” in Section 3601 doesn’t just refer to absolutely prohibited items. It extends to any importation done in a manner that violates customs laws and regulations, including declaration requirements. Even if the goods themselves are legal, failing to declare them properly, especially with fraudulent intent, can lead to smuggling charges.

For businesses involved in import/export, this case reinforces the need for strict compliance with customs procedures. Proper documentation, accurate declarations, and transparent dealings are essential to avoid legal pitfalls. Employees handling imports must be thoroughly trained on customs regulations and the importance of accurate declarations.

Key Lessons:

• Declare Everything: When in doubt, declare. It is always better to over-declare than under-declare. If you are unsure whether an item is dutiable, declare it and seek clarification from customs officers.
• Honesty is Your Best Policy: Never deny or conceal goods. Transparency builds trust and demonstrates good faith, even if you make a mistake.
• Understand Customs Forms: Familiarize yourself with the Customs Declaration Form and fill it out accurately and completely. If the form is too small for a detailed list, attach a separate sheet with a comprehensive inventory.
• Seek Guidance: If you are carrying a significant amount of valuable goods or are unsure about customs regulations, seek advice from customs brokers or legal professionals specializing in customs law before you travel.
• Intent Matters: Fraudulent intent, demonstrated through concealment or false statements, is a key element in smuggling cases. Avoid any actions that could be interpreted as an attempt to deceive customs authorities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Q: What is considered “dutiable goods” in the Philippines?

A: Dutiable goods are items that are subject to customs duties or taxes when imported. This generally includes goods exceeding a certain value (currently PHP 10,000 for personal effects) or those intended for commercial purposes. Specific categories and thresholds are subject to change, so it’s best to check the Bureau of Customs website for the most up-to-date information.

Q: What happens if I accidentally forget to declare an item?

A: If the customs officer believes the failure to declare was unintentional and without fraud, you may be given the option to pay the duties and taxes, plus penalties, to release the goods. However, this is at the discretion of the customs officer, and repeated or suspicious “accidental” omissions can still lead to more serious consequences.

Q: Can I be charged with smuggling even if the items I’m carrying are not illegal?

A: Yes. As Jardeleza v. People demonstrates, smuggling charges are based on the fraudulent importation, not necessarily on the nature of the goods themselves. Failing to declare dutiable goods and attempting to conceal them can be considered fraudulent importation, even if the goods are legal to possess in the Philippines.

Q: What is the penalty for smuggling in the Philippines?

A: Penalties for smuggling under Section 3601 of the TCC vary depending on the value of the smuggled goods. They range from fines and imprisonment to, in severe cases involving violence, reclusion perpetua to death. For Jardeleza, the penalty was imprisonment of eight years and one day to twelve years, a fine of ten thousand pesos, and forfeiture of the jewelry.

Q: What should I do if I am unsure about customs regulations or declaration procedures?

A: Consult the Bureau of Customs website for official guidelines and FAQs. You can also contact a licensed customs broker or a law firm specializing in customs and trade law for expert advice. It’s always better to seek clarification beforehand to ensure compliance.

Q: Does declaring goods guarantee I won’t face any issues with customs?

A: Declaring goods honestly and accurately significantly reduces your risk of facing legal issues. However, customs officers still have the right to inspect your baggage and verify your declarations. Full compliance with all customs procedures is always recommended.

ASG Law specializes in Customs and Trade Law. Contact us or email hello@asglawpartners.com to schedule a consultation.