The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday confirmed the impending deportation of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy following the completion of his sentence for harassment-related offenses committed in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Zdorovetskiy has already served his sentence and is now cleared for deportation.

Remulla emphasized that while the Philippines welcomes foreign visitors, respect for local laws is expected.

“Let this be a reminder to all our visitors here in the Philippines that while we welcome tourists and treat them with respect, we also expect them to follow our laws, just as we do when we travel abroad. We have no ill feelings against Vitaly. He has served his time, shown remorse, and is now a free man when he returns to Russia,” Remulla said.

He clarified that although Zdorovetskiy holds a United States green card, he remains a Russian citizen and will be deported to Russia in accordance with standard immigration procedures.

Zdorovetskiy is expected to leave the country within the week on a flight passing through Kalibo, Aklan, en route to Moscow.

The Bureau of Immigration confirmed that a deportation order has been issued and is awaiting final clearances from the National Bureau of Investigation and the courts.

The BI said all cases and penalties against Zdorovetskiy have been resolved and that coordination with Russian authorities is underway to complete the deportation process.

Zdorovetskiy was arrested last year after filming prank videos involving Filipino civilians. Authorities said his actions included attempting to kiss and grab a security guard, trying to seize the guard’s firearm, recording individuals without consent, and vlogging in BGC without the required permit.