The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has enforced a firm stance against foreign nationals who violate local laws, culminating in the deportation of a controversial Russian social media personality. The agency confirmed that Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was sent back to Russia after being declared an undesirable alien.
Deportation Order and Flight Details
The BI's Board of Commissioners issued the formal order for Zdorovetskiy's removal on December 17. The execution of this order took place on Saturday, January 18, 2026, when the 33-year-old vlogger was placed on an IrAero flight directly bound for Irkutsk, Russia. This action followed his initial arrest in April of the previous year.
A Pattern of Disrespect and Harassment
The deportation was not based on an isolated incident but on a series of serious complaints. The BI stated that Zdorovetskiy engaged in behavior that harassed and disrespected several Filipinos, disrupted public peace and safety, and committed acts deemed contrary to morals, good customs, and public policy.
Evidence against him included social media recordings that showed:
- Harassing a security guard.
- Shouting expletives at a Filipino woman wearing a face mask.
- Stealing a heavy-duty electric fan.
- Taking a tricycle without permission, which later crashed into a parked jeepney.
During inquest proceedings, Zdorovetskiy admitted to the acts of harassment. He was subsequently detained at the BI Warden's Facility inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig. His application for bail was denied by the bureau, leading to his continued custody until deportation.
Permanent Blacklist and Official Statement
Following the deportation, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced that Zdorovetskiy's name has been added to the agency's immigration blacklist, barring him from re-entering the Philippines.
Commissioner Viado emphasized the country's hospitality but also its unwavering commitment to the rule of law. "The country warmly receives guests from all nations, but respect for our laws is non-negotiable," Viado stated. "Those who engage in harassment or disruptive acts undermine public order and will be swiftly sanctioned."
This case highlights the BI's authority to deport foreigners who commit acts that threaten public safety and Filipino citizens, reinforcing that such behavior will result in severe and lasting consequences.
