Filipinos hold candles during a ceremony in honour of late former Philippine president Corazon Aquino in Manila yesterday as they mourn her death. Philippines democracy icon "Cory" Aquino, whose "People Power" revolution toppled dictator Ferdinand Marcos and restored democracy to the nation, died early Saturday after a battle with colon cancer. Photo: AFP

The United States, Japan and Southeast Asia led international tributes to former Philippines president Corazon Aquino, who died yesterday after a battle with colon cancer.
People across the Catholic nation woke to the news early Saturday, as Aquino's family announced her death and President Gloria Arroyo declared a 10-day period of mourning.
President Barack Obama described her as a historic figure who helped restore democracy to her country.
Obama "was deeply saddened" by news of Aquino's death, read a statement late Friday from White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs.
Aquino "played a crucial role in Philippines history", moving the country to democratic rule through her non-violent "People Power" movement over 20 years ago.
"Her courage, determination, and moral leadership are an inspiration to us all and exemplify the best in the Filipino nation. On behalf of the American people, the President extends his deepest condolences to the Aquino family and the nation of the Philippines," the statement read.