Manila, Feb. 13 -- Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla met with Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan Thursday to discuss, among other topics, easing tensions between the Philippines and China.

In an interview Friday, Remulla said they did not talk about the dispute over the Kalayaan Island Group.

He said the dialogue focused on practical measures that could help ease tensions and foster better mutual understanding between the two countries.

"Hindi namin pinag-usapan 'yung (We didn't talk about the) Kalayaan (issue). Mas pinag-usapan namin 'yung (We talk more about) how to de-escalate the tensions between the two countries. And a lot has to do with cultural exchanges," Remulla said.

He added they also exchanged views on strengthened law and orde...