BI warden resigns, staff fired after Russian vlogger's corruption claims

The warden of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) detention facilities has resigned, while two deputies and three other personnel were dismissed following allegations by Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy that he filmed videos inside the facility during his stay, Malacañang confirmed on Monday.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered an investigation into the matter, which came days after Zdorovetskiy announced plans to release a vlog exposing alleged corruption within the BI’s detention center for foreigners. 

The vlogger had been detained in April 2025 following several harassment complaints.

His actions were not in accordance with facility rules and were unauthorized, according to Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro. 

“The President has instructed a thorough investigation into the matter,” she said in Filipino. 

Castro added that the BI leadership had informed authorities that the provision of mobile phones to detainees is intended solely for communication with family. Nevertheless, the government is awaiting details from Zdorovetskiy’s exposé.

“Even before this incident, the vlogger has a history of attacking our country but [we] still need to verify any claims he raises to ensure a proper investigation,” she further stressed.

Zdorovetskiy, who was deported to Russia earlier this month, claimed in a YouTube livestream that he retained a mobile phone throughout his detention by “paying the guard,” and filmed his experience to expose corruption.

“Everything. It’s corruption. I paid the guard. You’re good to go,” he said.

Authorities have indicated that cases may be filed against the former warden and sacked personnel if sufficient evidence emerges. 

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla added that Zdorovetskiy himself could face charges and possible extradition if it is shown he engaged in corrupt activity inside the facility.

Initial BI investigations revealed that Zdorovetskiy’s phone was confiscated in June or July 2025, prompting the seizure of other smuggled devices. 

Another foreign national, Malik Dejoun Okojie, who appeared with Zdorovetskiy in the video, allegedly smuggled mobile phones into the detention facility via supplies brought in by his Filipina wife.

Castro noted the Palace is yet to determine whether further leadership changes in the BI are necessary, pending the results of the ongoing investigation.

“It depends…It is necessary to investigate who started these kinds of abuses and for whom they were done,” she said.