Mayor warns of health risks from applying Kanlaon Volcano sulfur on skin
La Carlota City, Negros Occidental Mayor Rex Jalandoon has reminded the public about the health risks posed by sulfur from ashfall from the Kanlaon Volcano eruption on Tuesday, April 8.

A MAN applies sulfur on his skin from ashfall caused by the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on April 8. (Screengrab from Jon Erald FB video)
Jalandoon issued the reminder after a video from a resident of Barangay Ara-al, La Carlota City, circulated online on Tuesday, April 8, showing him applying sulfur on his skin from the ashfall.
The video received mixed reactions from the public, with some finding it funny, and others expressing concern. It garnered more than 5,000 shares and 10,000 reactions as of Tuesday night.
Jalandoon said that he had seen the video and strongly advised against doing this.
“I don’t know his reason, maybe for likes, views, or whatever, but it is not advisable,” he added.
Jalandoon, a doctor, said that the concentration of sulfur in the ashfall is uncertain.
He said that sulfur soap sold in the market is different from sulfur from volcanic ash. “The plants have died and roofs were damaged from the ashfall,” he added.
In a separate video, the man said that he was feeding his animals when the volcano erupted. He was half-naked at that time and the ash came into contact with his skin.
Jalandoon said that they are awaiting assistance from the national government to help repair the roof of houses damaged by the eruption on December 9, 2024.
He said that at least 1,000 individuals are still staying in evacuation centers and two additional families have been preemptively evacuated following the latest eruption.
Jalandoon has requested assistance from other local government units and private sectors to help on water rationing as well as clearing of roads from the ashfall.