Russian YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy Ordered to Leave Philippines After Legal Battle
Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, the Russian-born streamer and YouTuber famous as VitalyzdTv, never imagined his online celebrity status would lead to this outcome. The controversial content creator is now packing his bags to depart the Philippines and return to Russia. This move follows months of intense legal complications that have dominated headlines.
Deportation Order Officially Issued
Philippine immigration authorities have confirmed the formal deportation order. Arvin Santos, chief of the Bureau of Immigration Legal Division, provided clear details about the situation. He stated that all necessary legal procedures were meticulously followed before reaching this decision.
The deportation process required specific clearances from both the National Bureau of Investigation and the courts handling Zdorovetskiy's cases. Santos emphasized that these conditions were fully met. The streamer's legal matters at the Taguig Regional Trial Court and the Metropolitan Trial Court have reached resolution. All imposed penalties are now considered served according to official records.
Series of Incidents Led to Arrest and Charges
Authorities arrested Zdorovetskiy in April 2025 following multiple public incidents that raised alarms nationwide. His problematic behavior included several violations that disturbed public order and safety.
- Public disruption causing community concern
- Theft-related activities
- Trespassing on private properties
- Reckless driving endangering others
These actions resulted in formal charges under Philippine law. The legal system processed his cases through proper court proceedings. By January 2026, immigration officials verified that Zdorovetskiy had completed the required punishment period for his criminal cases.
Legal Processing and Detention Time Considered
Officials noted an important detail about his sentencing. While the charges could have carried a maximum sentence of approximately eighteen months, the time Zdorovetskiy spent in detention during investigations and legal processing was already counted toward his punishment. This accounting followed standard legal procedures in the Philippine justice system.
Government Officials Address the Situation
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla spoke publicly about the case. He aimed to address public concerns while protecting the country's international image among tourists. Remulla delivered a clear message about visitor expectations in the Philippines.
"We welcome visitors, but they are expected to follow the same rules," Remulla stated firmly. He stressed that the Philippines remains open and welcoming to all who respect local laws and regulations.
The Secretary also made a point about personal feelings toward Zdorovetskiy. "We have no ill feelings against Vitaly. He has served his time and he has shown his remorse and he is now a free man when he goes back to Russia," Remulla explained. He emphasized that the case was handled strictly through legal channels without personal animosity.
Citizenship Status Clarified
Despite holding an American green card, officials clarified Zdorovetskiy's legal status. He is officially recognized as a Russian citizen under current regulations. This citizenship determination made deportation to Russia the appropriate legal outcome according to immigration protocols.
Authorities confirmed an important procedural detail. Zdorovetskiy was not simply detained for immigration reasons. He underwent proper charging, trial proceedings, and court processing within the Philippine legal system before authorities approved the deportation order.
The case demonstrates how online fame intersects with real-world legal responsibilities. As Zdorovetskiy prepares for his forced return to Russia, the episode serves as a reminder that content creators must respect the laws of countries they visit, regardless of their digital celebrity status.
