NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Controversial YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy Transferred To Philippine Jail As Deportation Looms
Photo credit: BI
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has confirmed the transfer of Russian national and YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy to the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) as he faces several legal cases in the Philippines.
According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Zdorovetskiy was officially moved to BJMP custody on June 11 and will remain there until the resolution of his pending court cases. Only after those are settled will he be returned to BI custody to face deportation proceedings.
Zdorovetskiy had previously appealed for temporary release on bail, assuring authorities that he had no plans to evade deportation. In documents submitted to the BI, he promised to stay within Metro Manila and to voluntarily surrender if a deportation order were issued. However, Commissioner Viado made it clear that the Bureau does not intend to grant the request.
“This is not just a matter of administrative procedure—it is about protecting the integrity of our immigration laws,” Viado said in a statement. “Foreign nationals who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws must face the consequences.”
Zdorovetskiy, known for his controversial prank videos and disruptive conduct, was arrested in April following multiple reports of immigration violations. His actions during his stay in the country have sparked public concern, especially given the nature of his content and behavior.
The BI emphasized that the deportation of foreign nationals is not a matter to be taken lightly, particularly when their actions disrupt public order. Viado stressed that no special treatment would be given, regardless of public profile or online notoriety.
“As we continue to support the Marcos administration’s push for stronger border security and law enforcement, the Bureau will ensure that foreign violators are held accountable, processed swiftly, and removed from the country as warranted,” Viado said.
Zdorovetskiy’s case has highlighted the Philippine government’s commitment to upholding immigration laws and ensuring that those who violate them face the full force of the legal system.
According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Zdorovetskiy was officially moved to BJMP custody on June 11 and will remain there until the resolution of his pending court cases. Only after those are settled will he be returned to BI custody to face deportation proceedings.
Zdorovetskiy had previously appealed for temporary release on bail, assuring authorities that he had no plans to evade deportation. In documents submitted to the BI, he promised to stay within Metro Manila and to voluntarily surrender if a deportation order were issued. However, Commissioner Viado made it clear that the Bureau does not intend to grant the request.
“This is not just a matter of administrative procedure—it is about protecting the integrity of our immigration laws,” Viado said in a statement. “Foreign nationals who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws must face the consequences.”
Zdorovetskiy, known for his controversial prank videos and disruptive conduct, was arrested in April following multiple reports of immigration violations. His actions during his stay in the country have sparked public concern, especially given the nature of his content and behavior.
The BI emphasized that the deportation of foreign nationals is not a matter to be taken lightly, particularly when their actions disrupt public order. Viado stressed that no special treatment would be given, regardless of public profile or online notoriety.
“As we continue to support the Marcos administration’s push for stronger border security and law enforcement, the Bureau will ensure that foreign violators are held accountable, processed swiftly, and removed from the country as warranted,” Viado said.
Zdorovetskiy’s case has highlighted the Philippine government’s commitment to upholding immigration laws and ensuring that those who violate them face the full force of the legal system.
Jun 16, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
