Mama Gump

There are some stories that tug at your heartstrings and make you proud to be a Filipino. Stories that you thought only happened in the movies.

The Filipino widow of a police officer who was one of the many first responders on 9/11 welcomed the settlement deal that would benefit the thousands of first responders on that fateful day. They were exposed to toxic fumes and dust at the site, causing them to have respiratory illnesses.

Some, as in the case of Eva Borja’s husband, succumbed to complications that arose from the exposure. She expressed elation that many will now be compensated for their bravery. Those claiming may receive as much as $800,000 to $1.5 million, while those who have died can claim as much as $1.5 million. A lot of money by any standards.

Eva Borja brought the plight of her husband Cesar to the media, in order for people and the government to take notice. This opened the way for the filing of claims by other first responders who were also similarly affected. But the beauty of this story does not end here.

Eva Borja did not file a claim for her husband, and has no intentions to. According to her, they have enough money for their needs, and did not need any more.

How often do you hear that from a regular person? In fact, have you ever heard anyone say that here in the Philippines? Here, even the wealthiest will never feel they have enough. We only need to look around or read the news to see how unsatisfied the richest of the rich are! And let’s not forget the many politicians who have enriched themselves while in office!

“A man only needs so much money, the rest is just for showing off.” Who can forget that line from the movie Forest Gump? I guess Eva Borja has the same principles as Mama Gump. To pass up on an opportunity such as this one is just astounding. I can only be so proud of her attitude and resolve.

With a new administration coming in, one that promises transparency, humility and a promise to eradicate corruption from government, let us hope that the new leaders serve as examples and role models, and that everyone emulate them.

We can show that all Filipinos, whether here or abroad, can be like Eva Borja.