Russian Vlogger Tests Negative for HIV, Faces Deportation from Philippines
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Friday that Russian vlogger Nikita Chekhov has tested negative for HIV, following a medical examination conducted in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH). The results confirm that his viral social media threats to spread the virus in the Philippines were false and intended to provoke fear.
Medical Examination Confirms Non-Reactive Status
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that the medical tests, carried out on Thursday, showed Chekhov was non-reactive for HIV. "He was likewise tested for other related illnesses, all of which yielded negative results," Viado said in an official statement. The 21-year-old vlogger, who gained notoriety online for his alarming posts, was arrested in Quezon City on Wednesday.
Deportation Charges for Causing Public Alarm
The BI confirmed that Chekhov's actions were a form of rage-bait, designed to generate online engagement through fear-mongering. As a result, he now faces deportation charges for undesirability, as his social media content caused widespread panic among the public. Viado emphasized that the BI is working closely with other government agencies to ensure foreign nationals who abuse Philippine laws and create public distress are held accountable.
BI Addresses False Claims from Another Russian National
In a related development, Commissioner Viado responded to recent social media posts by blacklisted Russian national Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who complained about conditions at the BI Warden Facility (BIWF). Zdorovetskiy alleged inhumane treatment, including poor food quality and the use of a "tabo" (dipper) for bathing, and falsely claimed that pregnant women and children were detained there.
Viado clarified that these claims are misleading and untrue, stating that no pregnant women or children are held at the facility. "These videos are again rage-bait, using familiar tactics to generate views and online engagement," he explained. The BI conducted an investigation into how Zdorovetskiy accessed a mobile phone to record the video, which occurred around June or July.
Internal Actions and Confiscation of Smuggled Gadgets
Following the incident, the BI implemented immediate raids within the facility, leading to the confiscation of smuggled gadgets. By November, personnel found negligent in their duties were identified and removed from their posts. This action underscores the BI's commitment to maintaining order and security within its detention facilities.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Philippine authorities to address foreign nationals who exploit social media for sensationalism, while ensuring public safety and upholding immigration laws.
