Bureau of Immigration (BI) agents have arrested a Russian vlogger who went viral on social media for unruly behavior at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig City.
The suspect was declared an undesirable alien and will be subsequently deported after serving time in jail.
The Russian identified as Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, 34, was tagged as an undesirable foreigner following his viral social media posts featuring him harassing Filipinos he met on the streets, according to BI intelligence chief Fortunato Manahan Jr.
His arrest was deemed part of the government’s continued efforts to ensure public safety and maintain order, in line with the President Marcos’ commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of Filipinos.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said while Filipinos are known for hospitality, foreign visitors are expected to respect local customs and obey Philippine laws.
“The Philippines welcomes visitors from all over the world, but those who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws will be held accountable,” he said.
“Harassment and disruptive behavior have no place in our society, and we will take swift action against offenders,” he added.
Vitaly drew the ire of netizens after he posted videos of himself harassing Filipinos while filming around the BGC.
The arrest was conducted in coordination with the Makati police and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
A police reported filed at the Southern Police District by a security guard stationed in BGC, citing harassment. The CIDG immediately coordinated the matter with BI intelligence operatives, who effected the arrest based on a mission order issued by Viado.
Vitaly has been transferred to the BI’s detention facility inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig, pending his deportation.
“Our laws exist to protect the welfare of Filipinos, Let this serve as a reminder that while we welcome visitors, those who fail to respect our people and our laws will face the consequences,” Viado added.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “PNP-CIDG arrests Russian vlogger for harassing Filipinos in online videos”
