The implementation of the P85 wage increase in the National Capital Region (NCR) remains suspended following the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 152’s issuance of a writ of preliminary injunction.

In a 14-page order, signed by Presiding Judge Marie Joyce Manongsong, the court directed the petitioners to post a P10 billion bond while the case concerning Wage Order No. 27 or the P85 wage hike is being heard, RH Edniel Parrosa reported.

The temporary restraining order (TRO) that had initially prevented the said order from taking effect was set to expire on Thursday, August 13.

Meanwhile, the court reiterated the directive for respondents to file their answer to the petition within the reglementary period.

“Parties are directed to file and furnish the adverse parties, their comment to the motions for intervention filed by the Federation of Free Workers et al, and the Association of Minimum Wage Earners and Advocates-PTGWO within a non-extendible period of three (3) days from receipt of this order,” the document read.

Several groups have asked the Supreme Court to intervene concerning the court orders blocking the wage increase issued by the Pasig RTC. The groups argued that the court’s action violates the Labor Code, which states that the National Wages and Productivity Commission has the authority to hear petitions involving wage adjustments.