Russian vlogger Vitaly won’t be deported — DILG Secretary Remulla

In a surprising turn of events, controversial Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who was recently apprehended in the Philippines, will not be immediately deported. Instead, authorities have decided he will remain in the country to face the legal repercussions of his actions.

This decision was announced on Monday, April 7th, by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla. Secretary Remulla, who didn't mince words, described Vitaly's online content as "kupal content." He emphasized the importance of upholding Filipino dignity and the rule of law, particularly when foreign visitors are involved.

Vitaly's troubles began when videos of his disruptive behavior in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) surfaced online. These clips showed him engaging in alarming acts, including verbally harassing and threatening a woman, and accosting a security guard. Reports detail how he not only stole the guard's cap but also made unwanted physical advances and attempted to tamper with the guard's firearm, all while filming without permission. Beyond this, allegations have emerged of him driving off on a patrol motorcycle without authorization and causing damage, further incidents of insulting behavior towards a Filipino woman, and even petty theft, like stealing an electric fan from a restaurant.

The fallout from Vitaly's antics has been swift. BGC management has already declared they are pursuing legal action. Philippine National Police (PNP) Southern Police District has a record of the security guard's complaint detailing harassment. Currently, Vitaly is under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), designated as an "undesirable alien."

Adding another layer to the investigation, authorities are actively searching for the Filipino cameraman who collaborated with Vitaly in creating his controversial content. Secretary Remulla also pointed out the irony of Vitaly's expensive accommodation at Conrad Manila, suggesting his disruptive lifestyle is financed at the expense of Filipino sensibilities.

Looking ahead, Secretary Remulla has voiced a call for legislative reform. He suggests revisiting and strengthening the country's cyberlibel law. His aim is to create a legal framework that better addresses and deters the creation of online content, whether by locals or foreigners, that is deemed disruptive and disrespectful, especially when it exploits or demeans the Filipino people.

Beyond the BGC incidents, further accusations have arisen from Boracay, alleging Vitaly harassed a Filipino instructor with offensive and sexually charged remarks. He is also accused of inciting his online followers to flood a local business with negative fake reviews, raising concerns about cyber harassment. The Bureau of Immigration and CIDG are continuing discussions on how to proceed with Vitaly's case while he remains in their custody.