NEW YORK – The Filipina widow of a New York City police officer who died of lung complications after rescuing victims in the 9/11 attacks welcomed the multi-million-dollar settlement deal that would benefit about 10,000 first responders who were exposed to toxic dusts.

“Natuwa ako na nakakuha sila, kasi mahirap talaga 'yong nagkasakit ka na, namatayan ka na, wala ka pang pera. Talagang mahirap iyon. So, I’m very happy na nakakuha sila,” said Eva Borja, widow of New York City police officer, Cesar Borja.

The settlement could amount to more than $712 million.

First responders claiming respiratory diseases may be eligible for compensation from $800,000 to $1.5 million. Death benefit claims could each reach up to $1.5 million.

Officer Borja gained national attention when then former New York Senator Hillary Clinton hailed him as a 9/11 hero, one of many who sacrificed their health and lives to save others from the rubble.

He died of lung complications in 2007 due to toxic dust he inhaled while on duty in "Ground Zero" back in 2001.

However, the Borjas’ will not get a single cent from this settlement. Mrs. Borja said she did not file a claim and she did not want the money.

“Simula’t sapul naman talaga, wala naman kaming balak mag-file, talagang purpose lang namin noon, kaya inano namin sa media iyong problem namin, dahil kailangan namin ng lungs para sa asawa ko,” she said.

Borja said life goes on for her and their 3 children. She said the pension she gets from her husband’s work is more than enough for them to get by.

“No regrets. Hindi naman lahat sa buhay ay pera, importante sa akin ay peace of mind, good health, money is last. Sa ibang tao siguro money is first, not for me,” said Mrs. Borja.

Some Filipino first responders who filed a claim to this settlement declined to comment to Balitang America, following their attorney's instructions to wait until the settlement is finalized. Balitang America