An Estonian vlogger was arrested for allegedly harassing Filipinos and engaging in unauthorized filming and demeaning behavior, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.
The BI said the 34-year-old Siim Roosipuu was arrested on January 15 by immigration intelligence operatives and the agency’s anti-terrorism group, in coordination with the Philippine National Police.
Immigration authorities said deportation proceedings have been initiated against Roosipuu, stressing that the government will not tolerate foreigners who engage in inappropriate conduct or mock Filipinos.
The BI said Roosipuu runs a YouTube channel called Pro Life Traveler and allegedly harassed Filipinos, including minors.
In a statement, the BI said Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado ordered action after local officials in Negros Oriental declared Roosipuu persona non grata. The declaration cited complaints of harassment, unauthorized filming, offensive remarks, and online content that demeaned Filipinos. The city council resolution was endorsed to national agencies, prompting enforcement action and the vlogger’s arrest.
Viado likened the case to that of Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who was deported after livestreaming incidents of harassment in Taguig City. Zdorovetskiy faced three counts of unjust vexation and was arrested after the incident went viral.
“The Philippines is not a content playground,” Viado said, warning that foreigners should not exploit Filipinos for views or online engagement. “We welcome tourists and legitimate creators, but anyone who exploits our people for views, clicks, or profit will face arrest, deportation, and blacklisting,” he added.
“If you come here to provoke, insult, or humiliate Filipinos, your stay will be short and your exit will be permanent,” Viado said.
