The Department of the Interior and Local Government has confirmed the impending deportation of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy after he completed his sentence for harassment-related offenses committed in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Thursday that Zdorovetskiy has already served his sentence and is now cleared for deportation. He said the Philippines welcomes foreign visitors but expects them to respect local laws.
“Let this be a reminder to all our visitors here in the Philippines that while we welcome tourists and treat them with respect, we also expect them to follow our laws, just as we do when we travel abroad,” Remulla said. He added that authorities hold no ill feelings toward Zdorovetskiy and noted that he has served his time, expressed remorse and will return to Russia as a free man.
Remulla clarified that while Zdorovetskiy holds a United States green card, he remains a Russian citizen. He will be deported to Russia in accordance with standard immigration procedures.
Zdorovetskiy is expected to leave the country within the week on a flight passing through Kalibo, Aklan, en route to Moscow.
The Bureau of Immigration confirmed that a deportation order has been issued and is awaiting final clearances from the National Bureau of Investigation and the courts. The bureau said all cases and penalties against Zdorovetskiy have been resolved and that coordination with Russian authorities is ongoing to complete the deportation process.
Zdorovetskiy was apprehended last year after filming prank videos involving Filipino civilians. Authorities said the incidents included attempting to kiss and grab a security guard, trying to seize the guard’s firearm, recording individuals without consent and vlogging in Bonifacio Global City without the required permit.
