MANILA, Philippines - Cardinal Jaime Sin, an outspoken advocate of democracy who played a key role in the "people power" revolts that ousted two Philippine presidents, died Tuesday. He was 76.
Sin had been ill with kidney problems and diabetes for years and was unable to attend the Vatican conclave that chose a new pope in April, although colleagues said he desperately wanted to go.
Known for his dedication, engaging personality and sense of humor — he often referred to his residence as "the house of Sin" — the cardinal was one of Asia's most prominent religious leaders.
Sin served as the moral compass in the overwhelmingly Catholic Philippines, where he took vocal, sometimes controversial stances on everything from birth control to poverty, politics and the U.S.-led war in Iraq. He once apologized for church neglect of the poor.
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