Marcos Orders Deep Probe After Russian Vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy Drops Explosive Prison Claims
VITALY ZDOROVETSKIY – Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy’s explosive allegations have prompted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to order a full investigation into possible corruption inside a Philippine detention facility.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into alleged corruption inside a detention facility following claims made by Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, Malacañang confirmed on Monday.
The directive came after Zdorovetskiy, who was detained for three months before being deported from the Philippines, alleged that “money talks” in the country’s detention system. The controversial content creator further claimed that he was able to keep his mobile phone while in custody and publicly vowed to expose supposed corruption behind bars.
At a press conference on Monday, January 26, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified that detainees are strictly prohibited from possessing mobile phones, stressing that such acts are clear violations of existing rules and regulations inside detention facilities.
Castro revealed that immediate administrative actions have already been taken as part of the President’s order to look into the matter. “Sa ngayon po, dahil inutos din po ng Pangulo na magkaroon ng malalimang pag-iimbestiga rito, tatlo po ang tinanggap na ang courtesy resignation—isang warden at dalawang deputies. Sa ngayon ay pinag-iigting pa rin ang pag-iimbestiga ng Bureau of Immigration,” Castro said.
According to the Palace official, the Bureau of Immigration is continuing its intensified probe to determine whether there were lapses or deliberate misconduct among personnel assigned to the detention facility where Zdorovetskiy was held. The courtesy resignations, she said, were meant to allow investigators to conduct a fair and unhampered inquiry.
Castro also noted that even before his arrest, Zdorovetskiy appeared to be intent on discrediting the Philippines, suggesting that his statements should be treated with caution. Despite this, she emphasized that authorities would not dismiss any potential evidence outright.
Any video or material that the vlogger may release regarding his detention could still be examined and used as part of the investigation, Castro added, should it provide a factual basis or corroborate allegations of wrongdoing.
The Palace underscored that President Marcos is firm on accountability within government institutions. Should the ongoing investigation uncover abuses of authority or systemic corruption, Castro said appropriate charges will be filed against those found responsible, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to integrity and the rule of law.
READ ALSO: Vitaly Zdorovetskiy VIP Treatment Allegations Cost BI Officials Their Jobs
