BI Takes Action Against ‘Rage Bait’ Content: Russian Vlogger Arrested in Manila Amid HIV Scare

BI Takes Action Against ‘Rage Bait’ Content: Russian Vlogger Arrested in Manila Amid HIV Scare

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | January 23, 2026

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – A Russian vlogger is in the Bureau of Immigration (BI) custody after being arrested for allegedly threatening to spread HIV while in Metro Manila.

His arrest in a Quezon City condominium follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to hold foreign nationals accountable for abusing Philippine hospitality and endangering public safety.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the vlogger as Nikita Chekhov, 21, who was behind the alarming social media posts regarding the HIV scare.

Chekhov, who entered the Philippines as a tourist on Jan. 15, allegedly uploaded videos filmed in Bonifacio High Street, Taguig, declaring his intent to spread HIV while in the country.

The videos, characterized by authorities as “rage bait” content, provoked extreme reactions and quickly went viral.

“These so-called rage-bait videos irresponsibly cause fear and panic among the public,” said Viado.

“Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to spread alarm, disrespect our people, or abuse our hospitality are not welcome and will face deportation,” he added.

The arrest underscores the BI’s firm stance against foreign nationals engaging in disruptive and disrespectful behavior while in the country.

Recently, another Russian vlogger, Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, was deported for “undesirable acts” in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

On the other hand, Estonian YouTuber Siim Roosipuu was declared “persona non grata” in Dumaguete City for posting disrespectful content involving minors.

Chekhov, a native of Taganrog, Rostov Oblast, Russia, arrived in the Philippines from Shanghai, China.

Currently detained at the BI’s detention facility, he awaits deportation proceedings.

Viado confirmed that the BI is coordinating with the Department of Health to address the potential public health implications of Chekhov’s alleged threats.