MANILA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Public figures of the Philippines, despite their different political positions, have expressed their sadness and hope on Tuesday after news came out that former President Corazon Aquino has been diagnosed with colon cancer, local media reported on Tuesday.

    Aquino's condition was made public on Monday in a statement by her youngest daughter, TV host Kris Aquino-Yap.

    Although Aquino is a critic of the Arroyo administration, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Tuesday said she was saddened by news that the former president has been diagnosed with cancer.

    "I am saddened, along with the Filipino people, of (former) president Aquino's illness," Arroyo said in a statement.

    "She led the country in peaceful change of government," Arroyo said, referring to the peaceful "People Power" revolution in 1986 that toppled President Ferdinand Marcos.

    "I am praying for her recovery and strength for her family," Arroyo added.

    Officials and other personalities affiliated with the administration expressed their solidarity with the former president.

    For his part, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said, "In times of adversity we will pray for her speedy recovery. I'm sure the president would be one in praying for her speedy recovery."

    From the church's side, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales assured the Aquino family that members of the clergy will be praying for the former president's health.

    Opposition stalwarts, with whom Aquino is currently allied with, also expressed their support for her.

    Former president Joseph Estrada, who recently shared the stage with Aquino against President Arroyo, is likewise saddened by Aquino's illness.

    He said in a statement that it is unfortunate since Aquino is at the forefront of the search for truth and democracy, referring to the investigation into the alleged corruption of the Arroyo administration.