By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – La Carlota City Mayor Rex Jalandoon has warned the public about the health risks of exposure to sulfur in volcanic ash from the recent eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.
The warning came after a video circulated online on April 8 showing a resident of Barangay Ara-al applying volcanic ash to his skin.
The video, which received more than 5,000 shares and 10,000 reactions, drew mixed responses, with some viewers amused and others concerned.
In a radio interview, Jalandoon, a medical doctor, said he does not advise such actions.
He stressed the health risks, noting that the concentration of sulfur in volcanic ash is unknown.
Jalandoon clarified that sulfur found in over-the-counter soaps is not the same as sulfur from volcanic ash.
He said ashfall has already damaged plants and corroded roofing in the area.
“I don’t know his reason for doing that—maybe for likes or views or whatsoever,” Jalandoon said.
In a follow-up video, the man explained he was feeding animals during the eruption and wasn’t wearing a shirt, so ash came into contact with his skin.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, inhaling volcanic gases and ash can pose serious health risks.
Breathing in high concentrations of volcanic gases may cause symptoms ranging from eye irritation to difficulty breathing or even death.
Jalandoon also confirmed that the city is still awaiting national government aid to repair roofs damaged during the Dec. 9, 2024 eruption.
More than 1,000 residents remain in evacuation centers, and two more families were preemptively evacuated after the recent eruption.
The mayor urged support from other local government units and private groups to assist with water distribution and clearing ash from roads.
