Celebrities pray for Senator Miriam's recovery

MANILA, Philippines – Celebrities took to social media to express their concern for Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, who revealed on Wednesday, July 2 that she has been diagnosed with lung cancer.

“Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself to you as the only senator who has been diagnosed with lung cancer as of last week,” the 69-year-old senator said in a televised press conference.

On her Twitter account, ABS-CBN star Kim Chiu was among the many netizens who used the hashtag #MiriamFight.

The  hashtag was among the top Philippine trending topics on Twitter following Miriam's announcement.

huhuhu miriam santiago.. why oh why???? !!!! we need you!!! our country needs a person like you! #MiriamFight

— kim chiu (@prinsesachinita) July 2, 2014

TV host Bianca Gonzalez called Mirian an “iron woman.”

Iron woman indeed. Sending prayers your way, Ma'am @senmiriam.

— Bianca Gonzalez (@iamsuperbianca) July 2, 2014

“The senate will never be the same without her,” said news anchor Julis Babao

Let's pray for @senmiriam I hope she will be healed from lung cancer. The senate will never be the same without her. #prayforsenatormiriam

— julius babao (@juLiusbabao) July 2, 2014

“@senmiriam: I have cancer of the left lung. #MiriamFight” - Praying for your fast recovery, senator.

— Jed Madela (@jedmadela) July 2, 2014

Sad news about @senmiriam being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.

— Saab Magalona (@saabmagalona) July 2, 2014

Despite being diagnosed with lung cancer, Miriam hinted she may still announce her 2016 presidential candidacy.

"I am supposed to be in remission by next month. I am going to announce my presidential candidacy," she said. - Chuck Smith