NEW YORK CITY - In the heart of New York City, at a church named after the Philippines' first saint, the Filipino community offered a mass for the country's first female president, Corazon Aquino.

Paolo Angelo Mabasa, a long time supporter of Mrs. Aquino, said he organized the mass upon hearing the news of the former leader's condition.

Aquino is still confined at the Makati Medical Center as she battles colon cancer.

"I thought it was vital for us to pray even here in New York. President Aquino is a symbol of democracy, not only in the Philippines but in the world [also], and I believe that she gave meaning to what Ninoy always proclaimed - that the Filipino is certainly worth dying for," Mabasa said.

Another supporter and distant relative, Mila Arquez-Blanquera, remains hopeful Aquino will win her battle.

"Through her, the Philippines attained the freedom it has been looking for," Blanquera said.

But for Connie and Rudy Quiambao, news of Aquino's health hit closer to home.

They've been friends with Mrs. Aquino for a very long time.

The couple first met Mrs. Aquino in 1981 while her husband Ninoy was exiled in the United States.

"[Aquino's daughter] Kris had a problem with her teeth, and so I was recommended by their friend to have her treated," Connie Quiambao said.

Despite her busy schedule, Quiambao said Mrs. Aquino would always make time for them, and even send them her painting, especially on special occasions.

"The texts of [Aquino’s daughter] Ballsy always says, 'Oh, Mom says make sure you greet your Tita a happy birthday.' I was so touched. I didn't expect her - being bedridden - to think of me on my birthday," Quiambao said.

And because they believe in the power of prayer, the Quiambaos said they are continuously praying for her to get well and have a chance to visit them in New York.

"Cory, remember that we are always praying for you, that we are very much concerned about your medical condition. I hope the Lord may grant you the strength, so you can recover, so you can travel and see your room in our house," Quiambao said.

More than two decades after Filipinos rallied behind Mrs. Aquino in her battle for the country's freedom, Filipinos find themselves rallying once again for the former president, sending their prayers even from afar, and urging her to continue fighting against cancer.