The dismissal of Florentino Floro -- who worked as judge in Manilla, Philippines -- was upheld by that country’s supreme court in September 2006 because of his obsession with the “paranormal and psychic phenomena.”
Floro claimed to be a pychic and consulted with “duwendes” -- mystical dwarves. He was in constant contact with three in particular: Armand, Angel and Luis who was also known as the king of kings.
He referred to the three dwarves as his “spiritual guides” and professed to be in a covenant with them. According to Filipino tradition duwendes are known for their violence and wickedness.
While sitting on the bench, Floro's courts turned into a three ring circus. He held psychic healing meeting is his office and while court was in session would consult with his three duwendes on possible verdicts. He also routinely changed from blue to black robes as a way of recharging his powers.
Floro gained the reputation as the “angel of death” for putting curses on other members of judiciary who Floro considered corrupt.
Floro had impressive academic background. He was top of his law class, graduating with honours and had the 12th highest mark in the 1983 bar exams. After becoming the youngest person assigned to the bench in Filipino history, Floro was fired in 1999 after complaints arose due his dismissal of a homicide case.
Floro appealed his removal all the way to the Supreme Court. Though he lost the case, the Court did grant him three years of back pay.
The Floro case has done little to fix the tarnished reputation of the Filipino justice system. A 1995, Supreme Court Commission stated that over half the Filipino judges took bribes.
Associated Press, The Free New Mexican, Manila Standard
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