Legal Effect of the Supreme Court Ruling
- The unconstitutionality ruling revives the previous law that was repealed by RA 8180.
- Specifically, the old tariff rates on oil imports, which were 10% for crude oil and 20% for refined petroleum products, are reinstated.
- This revival of tariffs takes effect once the ruling becomes final and executory, starting December 19, 1997.
Directive to Customs Officials
- Customs officials are directed to submit a list of oil shipments entered between April 16, 1996 (when RA 8180 took effect), and December 19, 1997.
- The submission must include the duties and taxes actually collected during this period, which were at rates of 3% or 7% as per RA 8180.
Imposition of Old Tariff Rates
- From December 19, 1997 onward, Customs must impose the reinstated tariff rates of 10% for crude oil and 20% for refined petroleum products.
- This is in strict compliance with the Supreme Court ruling that nullified RA 8180.
Compliance and Enforcement
- The memorandum orders strict adherence to the instructions to ensure proper implementation of the Court’s decision.
- It signifies the legal transition from the deregulated regime back to the previously established tariff framework for the oil industry.