Latest Update on the Case of Vitaly Zdorovetskiy
VITALY ZDOROVETSKIY — The Russian-American vlogger will not be deported from the Philippines for now, as he is set to face multiple charges related to the alleged harassment of Filipinos. This was confirmed by Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla during a press briefing on April 7 in Quezon City, where Zdorovetskiy was formally presented to the media.
Secretary Remulla emphasized that the controversial vlogger will remain in the custody of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) at its detention facility in Muntinlupa while awaiting trial. He stated that the government will not allow him to leave the country to avoid facing the consequences of his actions. “Doon muna siya mananatili sa Bureau of Immigration detention facility sa Muntinlupa habang siya ay naghihintay ng paglitis sa kanya rito. Hindi po namin siya ide-deport. Mananagot siya sa batas dito sa Pilipinas,” Remulla said.
Zdorovetskiy, widely known for his prank videos online, is facing backlash for allegedly insulting and harassing Filipinos during his stay in the country. His actions, believed to be part of his content creation, sparked public outrage and prompted strong reactions from both the public and authorities.
Secretary Remulla made it clear that Zdorovetskiy will not receive any special treatment and will be treated like any other foreign national who violates Philippine laws. He referred to the vlogger as an “undesirable alien” and a “flight risk,” stressing that the government will not tolerate such behavior.
Remulla also delivered a strong message to other foreigners who may believe they can act inappropriately in the Philippines. “Tapos na po ang mga dayuhan na kaya nalang lapastangan ang mga Pilipino. Ito’y ehemplo na seryoso tayo na sa sariling bayan natin, hindi tayo magpapabastos sa kanila,” he said.
Currently, five separate cases are expected to be filed against Zdorovetskiy. While investigations into the specific incidents are still ongoing, authorities remain firm in ensuring that justice will be served in accordance with Philippine law.
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