The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) clarified that the photos of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy smoking while in custody were not taken in their facility. According to the BJMP, the use of mobile phones and other gadgets inside their facilities is strictly prohibited.
The agency added that the photos Zdorovetskiy posted on social media were taken at authorized Welfare and Development Programs, such as supervised Bible study, and not in an actual cell. They also noted that Zdorovetskiy only remained in the custody of the BJMP for seven days from June 11–18, 2025.
“The BJMP remains committed to the security, discipline, and integrity of its rehabilitation programs,” the agency said. The vlogger was arrested for allegedly intimidating the public for content. After his detention, he was deported to Russia and blacklisted from returning to the Philippines.
In his post, Zdorovetskiy described his experience: “After 290 days in a Philippine jail with rats, cockroaches, and +35 Celsius heat, I am free.” He also stated, “They really tried to destroy me, but it also built me up.” According to him, he spent 91 days in complete isolation.
In closing, the vlogger said: “They want me gone, but here I am—all glory to GOD.” This experience demonstrated his steadfastness and faith amidst the challenge of detention abroad.
