Cebu’s borrowed sea ambulance sparks debate over logos and liability

A trial-run sea ambulance is causing waves in Cebu. Officials admit the vessel was borrowed, but the supplier’s logos blur the lines of responsibility.

, and Administrator

2025 November 28 . 7:32 PM

1 min read

In this image there is a boat in the water, there are few cranes, few trees, buildings,... — In this image there is a boat in the water, there are few cranes, few trees, buildings, streetlights and the sky.

Cebu’s borrowed sea ambulance sparks debate over logos and liability

A borrowed sea ambulance displaying the Province of Cebu’s logos has raised questions about liability and ownership. The vessel, supplied by Hydrodynamics Philippines, is undergoing a 50-hour trial—including a recent medical supply run to Camotes Island. Officials have clarified that no formal agreement exists for its use. During a budget hearing on 25 November 2025, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) confirmed the sea ambulance was borrowed for testing. The supplier added the province’s logos purely for marketing, not to imply ownership. No contract for purchase or rental has been signed. The province continues to evaluate the sea ambulance’s performance without financial commitment. Liability for any incidents would fall on the supplier, as no legal agreement ties the vessel to Cebu’s government. The trial period remains ongoing.