Photo credit: CIDG

Looks like karma caught up with him fast. Bureau of Immigration (BI) operatives have arrested Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy after he went viral for all the wrong reasons—harassing Filipinos while filming around Bonifacio Global City.

According to BI intelligence chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr., the 33-year-old was tagged as an undesirable foreign national after his disturbing videos sparked outrage online. His arrest is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to keep public spaces safe and uphold the dignity of Filipinos, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives.

No Room for Disrespect

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado made it clear: while the Philippines is known for its hospitality, foreign visitors are expected to respect local customs and follow the law.

“The Philippines welcomes visitors from all over the world, but those who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws will be held accountable,” Viado said. “Harassment and disruptive behavior have no place in our society.”

How He Got Caught

Vitaly’s arrest was carried out with the help of PNP Makati and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). The case was first reported to authorities by a BGC security guard who filed a police blotter citing harassment. This led the CIDG to coordinate with BI operatives, who swiftly took action based on a mission order from Viado.

Now, Vitaly is cooling his heels at the BI detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig, while waiting for his deportation proceedings.

A Warning to Foreign Visitors

Viado emphasized that this should be a wake-up call for anyone thinking they can disrespect Filipinos and get away with it.

“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.”

Moral of the story? If you’re a foreign visitor in the Philippines, enjoy your stay—but don’t overstep your welcome.