The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has taken decisive action against a foreign national whose online behavior sparked widespread concern across the Philippines. In a significant enforcement move, authorities apprehended a 21-year-old Russian vlogger, identified as Nikita Chekhov, after his social media posts went viral for containing threats to spread HIV during his stay in the country.
Arrest and Details of the Case
In an official statement released on Thursday, January 22, 2026, Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed the arrest of Chekhov, who was taken into custody inside a condominium building located in Quezon City. The Russian national had entered the Philippines as a tourist on January 15, 2026, arriving from Shanghai, China. Shortly after his arrival, he uploaded videos filmed at Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City, where he made alarming claims about his intent to disseminate HIV while residing in the nation.
Public Reaction and Official Response
The videos, believed to be created as rage bait content designed to provoke strong emotional reactions, generated substantial fear and panic among local residents and netizens alike. Commissioner Viado strongly condemned the actions, stating, These so-called rage-bait videos irresponsibly cause fear and panic among the public. He further emphasized, Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to spread alarm, disrespect our people, or abuse our hospitality are not welcome and will face deportation.
Current Status and Broader Context
Chekhov, a native of Taganrog in Rostov Oblast, Russia, is currently held at the BI detention facility as deportation proceedings are underway. This case follows a pattern of recent actions against other foreigners who have engaged in misconduct within the Philippines. Notably, the arrest occurred just days after the deportation of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy for inappropriate behavior in Bonifacio Global City and the apprehension of Estonian YouTuber Siim Roosipuu, who was declared persona non grata in Dumaguete City for posting disrespectful content involving minors.
The Bureau of Immigration's swift response underscores its commitment to maintaining public order and safety, ensuring that individuals who violate local laws and social norms face appropriate legal consequences.
