MANILA, Feb. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- Former Philippine President Corazon Aquino appeared Friday afternoon among thousands of demonstrators on street of the Finacial District of Metro Manila, urging President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to resign.

    In a bright yellow dress, the former president waved her hands with smile towards the anti-government demonstrators, who were later blocked by the riot police on roads leading to ways other than the Ayala Avenue, where used to be a government-permitted rally site.

    The government canceled all rally permits later on Friday after President Arroyo declared a state of emergency nationwide due to a reported coup attempt by disgruntled soldiers.

    Facing reporters earlier Friday, Aquino reiterated her call for President Arroyo to make the "supreme sacrifice" of resigning from office.

    The former President said she finds no reason to cancel her commitment to the Ayala Avenue rally in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the 1st People Power uprising. Aquino said she has faced greater dangers during the Marcos dictatorship to regain the country's democracy.

    Aquino, who is the widow of former senator Ninoy Aquino, has been at odds with Arroyo since last year.

    Some 3,000 demonstrators gathered in front of the Philippine Stocks Exchange Market at the Alaya Avenue Friday afternoon, but gradually found their way quit later without direct conflict the fully-armed riot police there. Enditem