Manila, Feb. 3 -- Malacanang on Tuesday said the recent heated debate on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in the Senate reflects the Philippines' democratic processes, but underscored that the administration remains firm on defending the country's maritime claims.

"Kung nagkaroon po man ng debate sa Senado, iyan po ay kanilang mandato - pag-usapan kung anong isyu - at iyan po ay parte ng pagiging democratic country (If there was indeed a debate in the Senate, that is their mandate - to discuss issues - and that is part of being a democratic country)," Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said.

Senators from the majority bloc earlier filed Senate Resolution No. 256, reaffirming the country's claim over the WPS and condemning aggressive action...