MANILA (PNA) — The Southern Luzon Bus Operators Association (SOLUBOA) said no fare hike will be in effect in the coming days as the Supreme Court decided to issue two temporary restraining orders (TRO) against higher tollway rates and the 12-percent value added tax (VAT) on toll fees.

SOLUBOA president Homer Mercado said a fare hike petition was ready for filing before the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board should the VAT implementation pushes through on Monday, August 16.

Earlier, buses plying the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) wanted at least 60 centavos per kilometer fare hike.They deferred the move due to SC ruling.

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, and Senators Ralph Recto and Franklin Drilon opposed the imposition of VAT, saying a "government service" tollways should not be subjected to a VAT.

BIR Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares was quoted as saying that a Supreme Court ruling could stop the implementation of a VAT on tollway rates.