Corazon Aquino Has Cancer

Corazon Aquino, who swept to the presidency of the Philippines on a wave of "people power" in 1986, is suffering from colon cancer, AP reports. Her daughter appealed to the country on Philippine TV to pray for her mother's recovery, and to respect the family's privacy. Religious and political leaders expressed sorrow.

The huge, peaceful demonstrations that toppled the Marcos dictatorship and put Aquino in power have become a model for democratic movements. Aquino, 75, has remained active in politics since her presidency ended in 1992, and recently joined demonstrations calling for President Gloria Arroyo to resign following allegations of corruption and vote-rigging. Arroyo said the government would join those praying for Aquino's speedy recovery. (More Philippines stories.)