Courts should not impede wage hike’

‘MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court should prevent lower courts from issuing orders hindering the implementation of a wage hike, leaders of progressive and labor groups said.

Pasig courts issued a status quo ante order on July 24 and a temporary restraining order (TRO) on July 30, halting a wage increase of P85 in Metro Manila.

Citing the Labor Code, groups said courts and other entities are prohibited from issuing injunctions or TROs to stop wage orders.

“Private companies should not be allowed to seek recourse in court to deny workers a salary increase,” Akbayan party-list Rep. Percival Cendaña said.

Judges released the orders following a petition filed by two construction firms.