Customs Modernization and Tariff Act
Section 1124. Settlement of Pending Seizure Case by Payment of Fine or Redemption of Forfeited Goods. - 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. No settlement by payment of fine shall be allowed when there is fraud or 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 payment of fine, the owner, importer, exporter, or consignee or agent shall offer to pay a fine equivalent to thirty percent (30%) of the landed cost of the seized goods. In case of settlement by redemption, the owner, importer, exporter, or consignee or agent shall offer to pay the redeemed value equivalent to one hundred percent (100%) of the landed cost.
Upon payment of the fine or payment of the redeemed 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.
Settlement of any seizure case by payment of the fine or redemption of forfeited goods shall not be allowed when there is fraud, or where the importation is prohibited or the release of the goods is contrary to law.