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Witness History: Singapore executes Filipina maid

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Singapore executes Filipina maid

15/05/2023 GMT

BBC World Service - Witness History, Singapore executes Filipina maid

The execution of Flor Contemplacion caused a crisis between the Philippines and Singapore

When Flor Contemplacion, who worked as a maid in Singapore, was convicted of two murders, many in her home country believed she was innocent, sparking protests.

In 1995, the execution of Flor Contemplacion caused protests, a government resignation and a diplomatic crisis between the Philippines and Singapore. 

Flor, who worked in Singapore, was convicted of killing another domestic helper, Delia Maga, and the four-year-old boy Delia looked after, Nicholas Huang. While Singapore stood by the conviction, millions of Filipinos believed Flor was innocent and had been let down by their government as an overseas worker.

Flor’s daughter Russel Contemplacion, who was 17 at the time, and Flor's lawyer Edre Olalia give Josephine McDermott their account.

(Photo: The coffin of Flor Contemplacion is carried to church prior to her funeral. Credit: Getty Images)

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