MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Former president Corazon Aquino remains conscious, her will to fight colon cancer still "very strong," her youngest daughter said Thursday night.

"I just want to assure everybody nakakausap namin siya [we are talking to her] and her spirit continues to be very strong," actress Kris Aquino said in Showbiz News Ngayon, a show she hosts in ABS-CBN, Thursday night.

But Aquino, trying to fight back her tears, admitted that their family have opted to keep details about the former president's health "because it's painful."

However, the actress said the trial did something good to her family.

"This has brought the family so much together," said Aquino, noting she and her brother, Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III have taken turns to stand by their mother at the Makati Medical Center during the night while their other siblings "have taken the dayshift."

Aquino reiterated the family's appeal for privacy and call for prayers.

"Sana patuloy nating ipagdasal. Maraming salamat po [Let us continue to pray for her, we so appreciate everything," said Aquino.

Earlier on Thursday, the Aquinos said they have faith in 'God's infinite healing power.'

Aquino's hospitalization was 'necessary' because of loss of appetite, which was caused by 'fluid build-up in her stomach area,' according to a statement released by the office of Senator Aquino.

'We remain in complete trust in God's infinite healing power,' according to the statement, which was released amid reports she was in serious condition.
The Aquino family also thanked the nation for the 'prayers and outpouring of love and concern for our mother.'

'She has and always will be a woman of faith, a fighter, a source of hope and inspiration for all of us, not just her family but our entire nation as well,' the statement read.

'Just like she has always taught us by her life's example, we entrust everything to God,' it added.

The statement was also read by Doctor Eric Nubla, head of patient relations at the Makati Medical Center where Mrs Aquino has been confined for over a week.

Meanwhile, messages of love and prayers poured for Aquino, who became the icon of democracy in the Philippines after she led a military-backed, popular revolt in 1986 that ended the 20-year dictatorship of then President Ferdinand Marcos.

In Aquino's website www.coryaquino.ph, people from all walks of life expressed their concern and prayed for Aquino's speedy recovery.

"Tita Cory, you are one of the people I look up to. You are an icon not just of this country but of history as well. As you fight the greatest battle of your life right now, I pray God give you strength to endure as you have endured what history gave you before that catapulted you to the chamber of heroes," wrote Alwyne Jan Perez.

Another supporter composed a poem for the former president, a part of which read: "You are a sheep among wolves during your presidency. You are an inspiration to a every Filipina mother and wife for being decent and honest. You are simply a great political figure in nation's history. Please continue to lead us. Do not abandon us yet. I pray for you."

Some supporters also remain positive that Aquino, known for wearing vibrant yellow clothes, will be able to defeat her illness.

Sylvia M. Ventura wrote in the website: "I have no doubt that Cory will recover. A combination of chemotherapy, diet, faith, and God's intervention will do the trick."

Cancer survivors also recommended alternative medicine, even treatments at hospitals abroad.The website also summarizes Cory's historic life, complete with photos, videos and anecdotes.