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Advocates Philippines
BI Tightens Rules After Deported Vlogger's Claims Spark Review
Photo credit: Bureau of Immigration, Republic of the Philippines
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ordered an internal review and reinforced detention rules following online claims made by deported foreign national Vitaly Zdorovetskiy about his stay at a BI detention facility.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the Bureau is aware of the allegations, which include supposed access to mobile phones and claims of corruption while Zdorovetskiy’s deportation case was still pending. While the statements remain unverified and are based solely on the deported individual’s account, Viado stressed that the BI does not ignore such accusations.
“Any allegation of misconduct or security lapses within BI facilities is taken seriously,” Viado said.
He clarified that the statements do not affect the legality of Zdorovetskiy’s deportation or the ruling that declared him an undesirable alien. Still, the issue prompted the Bureau to double down on enforcement.
“While these statements do not alter the legal basis of his deportation nor reverse the decision declaring him an undesirable alien, they underscore the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of existing rules,” he added.
Following the controversy, the BI conducted inspection and enforcement operations at its Warden Facilities in Taguig and Muntinlupa. These operations led to the confiscation of various contraband items, including unauthorized cash, mobile phones and electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, bladed objects, and gambling paraphernalia.
“The Bureau maintains a strict no-contraband and no- unauthorized-use-of-gadget policy in all detention facilities,” Viado said.
He also warned that accountability applies not just to detainees, but to personnel as well.
“Any personnel found to have violated regulations will face appropriate administrative and criminal sanctions,” he added.
Viado reiterated that Zdorovetskiy’s deportation and permanent ban from reentering the Philippines remain fully in effect under existing immigration laws.
“The Bureau remains committed to maintaining humane detention conditions, institutional integrity, and accountability,” Viado said.
“We will continue to strengthen internal controls to prevent abuse and ensure that our facilities operate in accordance with the law,” he concluded.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the Bureau is aware of the allegations, which include supposed access to mobile phones and claims of corruption while Zdorovetskiy’s deportation case was still pending. While the statements remain unverified and are based solely on the deported individual’s account, Viado stressed that the BI does not ignore such accusations.
“Any allegation of misconduct or security lapses within BI facilities is taken seriously,” Viado said.
He clarified that the statements do not affect the legality of Zdorovetskiy’s deportation or the ruling that declared him an undesirable alien. Still, the issue prompted the Bureau to double down on enforcement.
“While these statements do not alter the legal basis of his deportation nor reverse the decision declaring him an undesirable alien, they underscore the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of existing rules,” he added.
Following the controversy, the BI conducted inspection and enforcement operations at its Warden Facilities in Taguig and Muntinlupa. These operations led to the confiscation of various contraband items, including unauthorized cash, mobile phones and electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, bladed objects, and gambling paraphernalia.
“The Bureau maintains a strict no-contraband and no- unauthorized-use-of-gadget policy in all detention facilities,” Viado said.
He also warned that accountability applies not just to detainees, but to personnel as well.
“Any personnel found to have violated regulations will face appropriate administrative and criminal sanctions,” he added.
Viado reiterated that Zdorovetskiy’s deportation and permanent ban from reentering the Philippines remain fully in effect under existing immigration laws.
“The Bureau remains committed to maintaining humane detention conditions, institutional integrity, and accountability,” Viado said.
“We will continue to strengthen internal controls to prevent abuse and ensure that our facilities operate in accordance with the law,” he concluded.
Jan 27, 2026
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