MANILA- Although their salaries may not be doubled, Malacañang on Thursday said teachers can expect an increase in their salaries within the term of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the announcement after speculating that salaries of teachers can be doubled.

"He (Duterte) does not go back on his promises. He will increase the salary of teachers as much as we can. The intention is there," he said in a press briefing at the Palace.

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The issue of salary hikes for teachers was raised after the President made good on an often repeated promise to increase the salaries of policemen, soldiers and other uniformed personnel.

"Of course [teachers could expect], in the same way that it took time for his (Duterte's) election promise to double the salary of policemen and military. It will take some time but it will happen within his administration," Roque said.

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Budget Chief Benjamin Diokno earlier said that public school teachers will receive salary increases this year as the 4-year salary standardization law takes effect.

Roque added that the President had instructed his Cabinet officials to find ways to increase the pay of teachers

"He (Duterte) asked his cabinet members to find ways to increase the pay of teachers," he said.