Lubao, Pampanga — Former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo shared on social media Monday evening that her family is going through a difficult time and is asking for prayers for the health and safety of her husband, former First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, and their son, former Vice Governor Juan Miguel "Mikey" Arroyo.

According to the former president, Mike will be undergoing an operation in Singapore on April 7 due to his aortic aneurysm. Mike had previously undergone an emergency repair in 2007 when Gloria was still president.

"He will have to undergo a big surgery, combining bypass and an aortoplasty," Gloria said.

Meanwhile, son Mikey underwent a successful operation on March 18 due to stage one cancer in his thyroid gland.

She added that the family is also grieving the passing of Paowee Tantoco, husband of their niece Dina.

Gloria has asked her constituents for understanding regarding her inactivity in public service as she faces the challenges her family is undergoing.