Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy drew renewed attention online after sharing details of his months-long detention in the Philippines, prompting mixed reactions from social media users as he prepares for deportation following a series of controversial pranks in Metro Manila.

Social media users expressed varied reactions after Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy resurfaced online and posted updates about his incarceration. The content creator had been detained for several months after authorities said his pranks and stunts disrupted public order and violated Philippine laws.

The 33-year-old vlogger, known for prank videos, shared photos and a short video on Wednesday, January 21, showing himself inside the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Warden Facility at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. The post marked his first major public update since his arrest and subsequent detention over multiple incidents that led to criminal charges and deportation proceedings.

Zdorovetskiy was arrested in April 2025 and later declared an “undesirable foreign national” by immigration authorities. Officials said he harassed a security guard, shouted expletives at a Filipina, stole a heavy-duty electric fan, and took a tricycle that later crashed into a jeepney. The Bureau of Immigration said his actions disrupted public peace and were deemed contrary to morals, good customs, and public policy.

The Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy was charged with unjust vexation, alarm and scandal, and attempted theft. On January 15, the BI announced that he would be deported to Russia after serving his penalty. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla later clarified that the deportation was processed based on Zdorovetskiy’s passport of origin rather than his country of residence.

While awaiting deportation, Zdorovetskiy took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to describe his detention experience. “After 290 days in the Philippines jail with rats, cockroaches, and over 35-degree Celsius weather, I am finally free,” he wrote.

“They really tried to break me, but it built me. Out of the 290 days, I spent 91 days in complete isolation. They wanted me gone, but I am here. All glory to God,” he added, using emojis of chains and an explosion.

His post included a photo of him lying on a bunk bed while attending what appeared to be a Bible study session, as well as a video showing him staring out of a window as rain poured outside the facility.

The update drew widespread reactions online, with many users hoping the experience had taught the vlogger an important lesson. Several commenters urged him to reflect on his actions and respect local laws in the future.

“What is the biggest lesson you learned?” one user asked. Others commented, “Learn your lesson and move on,” and “Follow the rule of law, and you will have fewer incidents like this.” Some expressed hope that the experience had humbled him and encouraged personal growth.

For his part, Remulla said the arrest of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy should serve as a reminder to all foreign visitors that while the Philippines welcomes tourists and content creators, they are expected to comply with local laws and respect Filipino culture.

“We have no ill feelings against Vitaly. He has served his time, he has shown remorse, and he is now a free man when he goes back to Russia,” Remulla said.

The government has also moved to deport other foreign vloggers accused of similar misconduct. Estonian content creator Siim Roosipuu, known as “Pro Life Traveler,” is also facing deportation following complaints of unauthorized filming, harassment, and offensive remarks toward Filipinos.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado reiterated that the country is not a platform for exploitative content. “The Philippines is not a content playground,” Viado said. “We welcome tourists and legitimate creators, but anyone who exploits our people for views, clicks, or profit will face arrest, deportation, and blacklisting.”

As Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy prepares to leave the country, officials emphasized that the Philippines remains open to visitors—provided they respect its people, laws, and values.

After 290 days in the Phillipines jail with rats, cockroaches, and +35 Celsius weather, I am finally free. They really tried to break me but it built me. Out of the 290 days, I spent 91 days in complete Isolation. They wanted me gone but I’m here, all glory to GOD!!! ⛓️‍💥 pic.twitter.com/li2tsgMarG

— VitalyTheGoat🐐 (@vitalyzdtv) January 20, 2026