Russian Vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy Now in BJMP Custody

Russian prankster Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who drew outrage online for harassing Filipinos in Bonifacio Global City, has been officially turned over to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). This move was confirmed by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), which said the transfer happened last June 11.

Zdorovetskiy became known for creating shock-value prank videos, but his antics in the Philippines crossed the line for many. Clips of him mocking a security guard and disturbing people in BGC quickly spread online, prompting the BI to label him as an “undesirable” foreign national.

The Russian vlogger was caught back in April for violating immigration rules. Since then, he has asked to be released temporarily on bail but was denied. The BI pointed out that this is about more than paperwork, it’s about showing that immigration laws must be respected.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said Zdorovetskiy will stay at the BJMP facility while his cases are being decided. If the courts allow it, he will be deported back to Russia once all legal matters are settled.

The BI stressed that the Philippines will not hesitate to deal with foreign nationals who break local laws. As part of the Marcos administration’s drive for stricter border security, the bureau promised that violators will be processed quickly and removed from the country if necessary.

Many netizens hope this serves as a warning to other pranksters who think disrespecting Filipinos is just content for views.

(via Bureau of Immigration)