Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, known for his controversial pranks and social media stunts, has officially been turned over to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) by Philippine immigration authorities.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed on Monday that the 34-year-old content creator, who was previously detained for alleged public misconduct, is now under the supervision of the BJMP as he faces ongoing legal proceedings in the country.
From Viral Videos to Legal Trouble
Zdorovetskiy, who gained global fame for his provocative prank videos, was arrested in April in Pasay City after allegedly harassing several Filipinos in public. Authorities stated that his disruptive behavior appeared to be part of a video project intended for social media distribution. The arrest quickly sparked backlash online, with many Filipinos criticizing the vlogger for his disrespectful conduct and perceived exploitation of local citizens for entertainment.
According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Zdorovetskiy was handed over to the BJMP on June 11 as required by protocol, given that his legal issues now fall under local jurisdiction. While the BI initially detained him for “undesirability,” his fate now rests with the Philippine court system.
No Bail, No Exceptions
Zdorovetskiy’s legal team reportedly requested temporary release through bail, but authorities denied the petition. The BI emphasized that immigration law violations are taken seriously, especially when public order is at stake.
“This is not simply a matter of paperwork or routine enforcement,” Commissioner Viado said in a statement. “We are committed to upholding the integrity of our immigration laws. Foreign nationals who disrespect those laws—or worse, treat them as entertainment fodder—must face appropriate consequences.”
Viado also made it clear that the agency will not tolerate any attempts to use public influence or legal tactics to manipulate due process. “There will be no special treatment,” he added.
Pledge to Comply
Despite the charges, Zdorovetskiy has claimed he has no plans to evade deportation. In documents submitted to the BI, the vlogger said he intends to stay within Metro Manila and promised to voluntarily return to BI custody should a deportation order be finalized. However, officials remain cautious.
Under Philippine law, any foreign national who engages in actions deemed harmful to public order may be subject to deportation. Authorities stressed that Zdorovetskiy’s conduct met that threshold, citing his repeated disregard for local customs and public safety during his stay.
Waiting for the Courts
For now, Zdorovetskiy will remain in the BJMP’s custody until the courts resolve the criminal cases filed against him. Once his legal matters have been addressed, the Bureau of Immigration is expected to resume deportation procedures.
“This is part of our support for President Marcos’ broader initiatives on national security and law enforcement,” Viado said. “We are committed to processing foreign violators swiftly and fairly, but without compromise.”
A Pattern of Controversy
Zdorovetskiy is no stranger to legal run-ins. Over the years, his stunts have sparked outrage and criminal complaints in various countries. While some view him as a fearless entertainer, others see him as reckless and disrespectful—especially when his content crosses legal or cultural boundaries.
His arrest in the Philippines is just the latest chapter in a long history of controversy. Whether it results in a quick deportation or a more drawn-out legal battle, one thing is clear: Zdorovetskiy’s time in the Philippines may not end with just a viral video.