Immigration Officials Dismissed Following Russian Vlogger's Controversial Detention
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has taken decisive action by removing three officials from their positions. This move comes in response to the circulation of videos that allegedly show "special treatment" being given to controversial Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy during his time at the BI Detention Facility. Malacañang confirmed this development on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Press Secretary Claire Castro Addresses the Incident
During a press briefing, Press Secretary Claire Castro provided details about the situation. She stated that the videos, which surfaced online, were recorded during the early stages of Zdorovetskiy's detention. Castro emphasized that authorities confiscated several cellphones from the vlogger as part of their investigation.
In her remarks, Castro highlighted the government's commitment to accountability, saying: "If there are others who may be found to have lapses, this will still be investigated, and those who have committed abuses will be removed from their positions." This statement underscores the ongoing scrutiny of the case to ensure that any further misconduct is addressed promptly.
Vitaly Zdorovetskiy's Deportation and Social Media Posts
On Wednesday, Zdorovetskiy shared photos online after being deported back to Russia. This followed several months of imprisonment in the Philippines, where he was arrested in April 2025. He served nine months in jail after complaints were filed against him for alleged harassment and prank-related actions.
Reflecting on his experience, Zdorovetskiy wrote on his social media pages: "After 290 days in the Philippines jail with rats, cockroaches, and +35 Celsius weather, I am finally free. They really tried to break me but it built me." He also teased his followers by announcing that a full documentary on the incident would be released soon.
Background: Zdorovetskiy's Arrest and DILG Presentation
Earlier, on January 15, 2026, Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was presented during a press conference at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) office in Quezon City. DILG Secretary Juanito Victor 'Jonvic' Remulla stated that Zdorovetskiy, who was arrested last year for engaging in a series of law-breaking stunts as content for his YouTube videos, was set to be deported after serving his sentence in the Philippines.
Recent Arrests of Foreign Vloggers in the Philippines
Since Zdorovetskiy's release, two more foreign vloggers have been arrested in Dumaguete City and Quezon City. These individuals were taken into custody after harassing Filipinos and threatening to spread HIV while in the country.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla presented the suspects to the public on Thursday, using their arrest as a warning to tourists who might abuse Filipino hospitality. He stated: "Let this be an example to all the tourists. We love you all. We welcome you to the Philippines, but please do not abuse our hospitality."
This series of events highlights the Philippine government's firm stance against misconduct by foreign visitors, particularly those who use social media platforms to engage in illegal activities. The removal of BI officials serves as a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and that authorities are committed to upholding the law and ensuring justice is served.
