From Viral Pranks to Jail Cell: Russian YouTuber’s Legal Woes in the Philippines

Viral Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy has been transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology at the District Jail in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, in connection with ongoing legal cases stemming from his controversial social media videos. (Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Immigration)

From Viral Pranks to Jail Cell: Russian YouTuber’s Legal Woes in the Philippines

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationweek.com  

June 16, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – What started as a quest for viral fame has taken a dark turn for Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, 34, who now finds himself behind bars in the Philippines and facing deportation.

The Bureau of Immigration confirmed that Zdorovetskiy, notorious for his provocative antics, had been moved to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) from BI jail.

He was apprehended in Pasay on April 2, 2025, for what authorities classified as “undesirable behavior,” specifically targeting Filipino citizens for social media content.

His arrest shines a spotlight on the increasing alarm over foreign nationals exploiting the Philippines for online notoriety, often at the expense of local communities.

“This situation goes beyond mere administrative protocol; it is vital for maintaining the integrity of our immigration laws,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

He emphasized that Zdorovetskiy would remain in BJMP custody until legal matters are resolved, after which he will be handed back to the BI for deportation proceedings.

“We will not allow our deportation processes to be undermined by publicity stunts or legal maneuvers. No preferential treatment will be granted,” Viado declared.

Zdorovetskiy’s attempts to secure temporary release through bail were thwarted, further complicating his case. Despite submitting a statement to the BI pledging his intention to comply with deportation and stay in the National Capital Region, authorities remain skeptical. The BI reiterated that foreign nationals engaging in activities harmful to public order would face deportation under Philippine law. This case serves as a stark warning to those seeking to exploit the Philippines for online fame.

“As we continue to support the Marcos administration’s initiatives for enhanced border security and law enforcement, the bureau will ensure that foreign offenders are held accountable, processed efficiently, and removed from the country when necessary,” Viado said.