Russian-American content creator Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, known for his controversial prank videos, is set to face trial in the Philippines for multiple offenses committed during his stay in the country. Arrested in April 2025, Zdorovetskiy is charged with three counts of unjust vexation, among other allegations, after videos surfaced showing him harassing individuals in public spaces, including Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
Philippine authorities have confirmed that Zdorovetskiy will not be deported, as both Russia and the United States have declined to accept him. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated, “We will serve his sentence; I made sure of that.” If convicted, Zdorovetskiy could face up to 18 months in a Philippine jail.
The charges stem from incidents where Zdorovetskiy was seen grabbing a security guard’s hat, attempting to seize a guard’s firearm, and threatening to rob a woman, all captured during his livestreams. These actions led the Bureau of Immigration to label him an “undesirable” foreign national.
Zdorovetskiy has a history of legal issues related to his pranks, including arrests in the United States and Egypt. His current situation underscores the potential consequences of creating disruptive content in foreign countries. As he awaits trial, Zdorovetskiy remains detained in the Philippines, facing the possibility of serving his sentence there due to the refusal of his home countries to repatriate him.
