MANILA, Philippines -- Senators joined the family of former President Corazon Aquino in praying for her quick recovery, amid reports that she was in serious condition.

On Wednesday, the former president’s supporters started a nine-day novena for her recovery from colon cancer. Her spokesperson, Deedee Sytangco, said Aquino “needs all your prayers.”

“I have heard the news that President Cory Aquino is undergoing a difficult time in her illness. I join our people in the prayers for her quick recovery,” Senator Manuel Roxas said in a statement.

“President Cory is one of the great leaders I respect and emulate. Mrs. President, please fight on. We need you,” Roxas said.

Sen. Manuel Villar enjoined the Filipino nation to offer a prayer for the former leader.

“Our prayers are also with the members of her family. May their unshakeable faith in God strengthen them in this difficult time,” Villar said in a separate statement.

Villar said the country would be forever indebted to Aquino “for her significant contribution to the restoration of democracy in the country.”

“In this time when there are serious threats to our democracy, she remains the icon that our people turn to for hope,” he added.

Reporters were trying to reach Aquino’s son, Sen. Benigno Aquino III but he did not answer his phone.