Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was arrested on April 2 by the Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. He was arrested after his video titled 'Disturbing the Peace in the Philippines' showed him aggressively approaching civilians and disturbing the security personnel at the Bonifacio Global City.
Following his arrest, authorities investigated the multiple complaints launched against the YouTuber and presented them at a press conference on April 7. Jonvic Remulla, Secretary of the Department of Local and Interior Government (DILG), addressed the press and revealed
“He will remain there for now in the Bureau of Immigration detention facility in Muntinlupa while he awaits his trial here. We will not deport him. He will be held accountable under the law here in the Philippines."
Previously, the immigration officer, Joel Anthony Viado, had spoken to the press about Zdorovetskiy's offenses and noted that there are limits to a country's hospitality. He noted,
“The Philippines welcomes visitors from all over the world, but those who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws will be held accountable."
He added that "swift action" will be taken against those who perpetuate "harassment and disruptive behavior." He added,
"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.”
DILG presents Vitaly after his arrest in a press conference
Vitaly Zdorovetskiy appeared at the press conference by the DILG on April 7. The YouTuber was in handcuffs and was escorted into the room along with two security personnel.
According to the Inquirer, the YouTuber appeared to display signs of defiance by trying to take the security personnel's cap from them and, at a later point during the conference, showed the 'L' sign.
While Zdorovetskiy looked unserious during the conference, Jonvic Remulla emphasized that his actions would reportedly not be treated lightly. According to Remulla (as translated by the Rappler), Vitaly has "belittled" Philippine laws. He added that he will advise in the upcoming "Congress" to make changes in the "cyberlibel law." He added,
"When they see that it’s at the expense of others, at the expense of Filipinos, at the expense of everyone’s dignity, and they’re making money off of it, they should be held accountable."
The authorities are also looking to arrest Vitaly's cameraman, who assisted him in shooting 'Disturbing the Peace in the Philippines.' They noted that they suspect he is a Filipino.
Authorities at the DILG and Taguig Police have re-emphasized the importance of respecting laws as a tourist. While the authorities mentioned that they welcome visitors, they noted that repetitive disturbances will not be taken lightly and can potentially have serious consequences. While Vitaly is not being deported, it is unclear what consequences he will experience at the hands of Philippine authorities.
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