Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy will remain at the Bureau of Immigration Detention Facility in Muntinlupa City while awaiting his court trial, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Monday.
Remulla pledged to ensure fairness in the handling of Zdorovetskiy's case, as he faces local charges.
"He will be placed in the regular detention facility of the Bureau of Immigration. The inquest and charging process will follow the proper procedures, and he will eat the same food as regular inmates. In other words, there will be no special treatment,” Remulla said in a press conference.
He also clarified that Zdorovetskiy will not be deported following his arrest.
Police are also searching for Zdorovetskiy's Filipino cameraman, who may face appropriate charges.
Zdorovetskiy, who was presented to the media in Quezon City, was arrested last Wednesday by officers of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) through a mission order citing “undesirability,” in violation of a Bureau of Immigration Operations Order.
The Russian vlogger went viral online for his disruptive behavior while livestreaming at a mall in Taguig City, including harassing mallgoers and a security guard.
Secretary Remulla emphasized that due process is being observed and issued a stern reminder that foreign nationals visiting the Philippines must comply with local laws.