Presidential political adviser Gabriel Claudio said the prospective entry in the senatorial race of Mrs. Roco was a "welcome whiff of fresh air in Philippine politics."

"Not only is she the widow of a great and revered political leader, but also a lady of known integrity, courage, and wisdom," Claudio said in an interview with reporters.

Reports said Mrs. Roco intends to file her certificate of candidacy next month under Aksyon Demokratiko, the political party founded by her late husband.

Roco reportedly said she is open to coalesce with the administration or any political party to pursue her senatorial plan. Her name was among those floated to compose the opposition senatorial team.

Former Senator Roco, who challenged President Arroyo in the 2004 elections, died in August 2005, after a long bout with cancer.

He served as education secretary of President Arroyo in May 2001, after she was catapulted to power in the wake of a popular uprising that ousted then President Joseph Estrada.

Roco challenged President Arroyo for the presidency, but was forced to give up his bid to seek treatment in the United States when his illness recurred towards the end of the campaign.

He placed fourth in the presidential race. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)