Russian vlogger nabbed over threat to spread HIV

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January 23, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Four days after the deportation of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy for harassing Filipinos in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, another Russian vlogger was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly threatening to spread human immunodeficiency virus or HIV in the Philippines.

Nikita Chekhov, 21, was apprehended by the Bureau of Immigration inside a condominium building in Quezon City, according to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

Chekhov went viral on social media after threatening to spread HIV in the country.

Chekhov, of Taganrog, Rostov Oblast in Russia, arrived in the Philippines from Shanghai, China on Jan. 15.

The BI said Chekhov uploaded videos filmed in Taguig’s Bonifacio High Street, in which he made claims that he intended to spread HIV during his stay in the country.

The BI has coordinated with the Department of Health to check on Chekhov’s condition.

The bureau said Chekhov’s “rage bait” content caused fear and panic among the public.

“Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to spread alarm, disrespect our people and abuse our hospitality are not welcome and will face deportation,” Viado said.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said foreigners who are visiting the country to mock Filipinos through their vlogs would face the full force of the law.

“Let this be an example to all tourists. We welcome you to the Philippines, but do not abuse our hospitality,” Remulla said.

Chekhov is being held at the BI detention facility at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig pending deportation proceedings.

On Jan. 15, Estonian YouTuber Siim Roosipuu was nabbed and declared persona non grata in Dumaguete City for calling Filipinos as monkeys. – Emmanuel Tupas