Videographer of detained Russian vlogger faces charges, too

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy presented at a press briefing at the Department of the Interior and Local Government office in Quezon City on April 7, 2025. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – The videographer of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy who randomly harassed Filipinos is also facing complaints for unjust vexation, Malacañang said on Friday.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the videographer as Christopher Dantes (alias Skylane), Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire said in a press briefing.

“Para po dito sa sinasabing videographer or cameraman po na kasama po ni Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, ngayon po ay nasampahan po siya, ayon po sa PNP, nasampahan na po siya ng kaso, itong si Christopher Dantes alias Skylane (As for the alleged videographer or cameraman who was with Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, now he has been charged, according to the PNP, a case has been filed against him, this Christopher Dantes alias Skylane),” Castro said.

“Nasampahan po siya ng kasong unjust vexation in relation to RA (Republic Act) 10175 and RA 995 at saka po (He was charged with unjust vexation in relation to RA 10175 and RA 995 and the) Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act,” she added.

Marcos earlier condemned Zdorovetskiy’s actions harassing and insulting Filipinos for content, saying he would not tolerate abuse disguised as entertainment.

Zdorovetskiy is facing criminal complaints for allegedly harassing security guards, stealing an industrial fan from a restaurant while livestreaming at a mall in Taguig City, and verbally insulting a windsurfing instructor in Boracay Island.

Castro said Dantes will be given the opportunity to defend himself.

“Tayo po, sa administrasyon po ni Pangulong Marcos, ang lahat po ay binibigyan ng karapatang magdepensa (Under the administration of President Marcos, everyone is given the right to defend themselves) for them to exercise the right to due process,” she said.

“Hindi po ito babalewalain ng pamahalaan lalong-lalo na po sa pamumuno ni Pangulong Marcos.

Importante po ang due process sa mga Pilipino (The government will not ignore this, especially under the leadership of President Marcos. Due process is important to Filipinos).”