MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday vowed more help for the country's struggling athletes.

During the sendoff ceremony for the Filipino delegates to the Rio Olympics, Duterte said he will make sure that more funds will be pumped into the country's sports programs.

He said he will get the funds from oligarchs and businesses who skirt on their taxpaying duties.

"I assure you during my time, I will get the money from the pockets of those who are not paying and give it to you to train well," Duterte said.

''Be comfortable in the thought that in the coming days, you will have more support because I will collect taxes."

Duterte also made an on the spot raise in the allowances of athletes and officials, triggering cheers from the crowd.

''I will increase your allowances, sa mga athletes $3,000… $5,000 for the officials,'' he said.

Duterte also gave encouraging words to the athletes.

''I would like to just say to you to just try your best. You need not really kill to win. It is enough that you try, work hard... in the direction of love of country,'' he said.

"Not everybody is given the honor to serve this country. Of the 100 million Filipinos, you are given the opportunity to be a part of a team or to be working for government, and it's not given to anybody."