No TRO vs SSS contribution hike

MANILA, Philippines - The Supreme Court en banc did not issue a temporary restraining order against the controversial increase in Social Security Systems (SSS) premium contributions.

Although it was in the day's agenda, high court deferred action on the petition against the new SSS policy filed by militant groups Kilusang Mayo Uno and Anakpawis party-list among others.

The SC, however, asked respondents Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Social Security Commission and SSS President Emilio de Quiros to comment on the petition within 10 days.

The petitioners asked the tribunal that the government insurance system's April 13 resolution demanding a 0.6 percent increase of contributions be nullified.