Aquino agrees to undergo colon surgery

MANILA, Philippines, May 1 (UPI) -- Corazon Aquino, former president of the Philippines, has agreed to undergo surgery to remove a portion of her colon afflicted with cancer, an aide says.

Aquino's social secretary, Margie Juico, said Thursday Aquino decided to go ahead with the surgery because doctors determined cancer cells have not moved beyond that section of the colon, the Philippine Inquirer said.

"The former president is in high spirits. She's OK," Juico said.

Aquino has been undergoing chemotherapy for her cancer.

Juico said Aquino has remained active at her Makati City office.

The Inquirer said news of the former president's condition prompted Balanga Bishop Socrates Villegas to ask followers in an open letter to take part in a rosary prayer crusade for Aquino.