MANILA, Philippines -- Chito Madrigal-Collantes, businesswoman and philanthropist, passed away at 6 p.m. Monday night, her family said in a statement sent to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net).

The matriarch of the Madrigal family died peacefully in her home in North Forbes, Makati City, surrounded by loved ones. She is survived by her husband, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Manuel Collantes, as well as “generations of family who will live inspired by her life’s example.”

“Chito was a true woman of character, grace and substance, who was one of the first of a generation of women to break away from traditional roles. She will be remembered as both a pioneering businesswoman and philanthropist, as well as a style icon,” the statement said.

“Not only was she active in politics throughout her life, especially with the campaigns of Presidents Marcos and Macapagal, but she was also a Dame of the Order of St. Sylvester,” it added.

Her legacy, the statement said, will live on through the work of the Consuelo Madrigal Foundation, which provides housing for the homeless, micro-finance for the needy and livelihood projects nationwide.