ELVIRA “TOOTSY” ECHAUZ-ANGARA

Most Stylish Woman 2017

Within her soignée appearance is the heart and soul of a woman of grace: one who has survived great odds throughout her life and has come through shining.

Tootsy Angara shines at every gathering she attends, not only because of her kindness and her sterling wit, but also the effortless manner with which she carries herself and the innate sense of style that has earned the admiration— even envy—of many. Clad in the finest creations of some of our greatest local designers, she exudes calm confidence and a timeless elegance.

But beyond appearances, she is also a woman of great strength and character. As a child, she followed her journalist mother Baboo Mondoñedo to the forests of the Cordillera Region where she saw first-hand the struggles faced by the tribes of the northern provinces. It was an experience that would help shape the way she saw the world, one that built up her compassion and empathy for others.

Later on in life, she would bravely face her own Calvary as she fought off and triumphed over a tumour in her brain. Despite her pain, she lived on with love and faith as a strong career woman, a supportive wife, and a loving mother —and, in doing so, came out of the experience stronger, nobler, and a truly shining example of a woman who has seamlessly brought together style and substance. Along with her award, Ms Angara also received a Louis Vuitton My LockMe handbag.