Meghan Markle ‘deeply distressed’ over child abuse material allegations against father in Cebu

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 25, 2026

Photo courtesy: AAP News

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has expressed deep concern over allegations that child sexual abuse material was discovered at her estranged father’s former residence in Cebu, Philippines, as authorities investigate the claims.

The accusations surfaced after Meghan’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., reportedly discovered images and videos involving children among belongings left by their father, Thomas Markle Sr., and alerted authorities.

The 82-year-old former television lighting director has strongly denied the allegations, describing them as false.

Meghan, who is married to Britain’s Prince Harry, addressed the reports in a statement released on Friday, October 23.

“I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light in the last 24 hours, and my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed,” she said.

Philippine authorities investigating allegations

The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that its anti-trafficking and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children task force in Cebu is investigating the matter.

DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Ty said authorities were examining reports involving the alleged discovery of child sexual abuse material at Thomas Markle Sr.’s former residence.

According to British media reports, Thomas Markle Jr. claimed to have found a collection of images and videos while sorting through his father’s belongings in Cebu.

He reportedly alerted Philippine authorities and contacted law enforcement agencies in the United States, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

An FBI spokesperson confirmed that the agency was aware of the allegations and would provide assistance to Philippine authorities where appropriate. The agency also said it would examine any potential violations of US federal law.

The existence of an investigation does not establish that Thomas Markle Sr. possessed illegal material or committed a crime.

Meghan reveals earlier warning in 2018

In her statement, Meghan disclosed that she had been informed of allegations involving her father several years before the latest reports emerged.

She said a letter containing troubling accusations was sent to London’s Metropolitan Police and its Royalty and Specialist Protection unit in 2018. The letter was subsequently shared with her.

“It made troubling and disturbing allegations against my father and I was given assurances that these were being investigated,” Meghan said.

The Duchess explained that her decision to maintain distance from her father and prevent him from contacting her children was motivated by concerns for their protection.

She and Prince Harry have two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Meghan also expressed hope that the investigation would prioritize children who may have been affected and that justice would be served.

Meanwhile, London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that it had received a letter containing allegations against Thomas Markle Sr. The force is reviewing how the information was handled, including whether the matter should be referred to the police watchdog.

Thomas Markle denies accusations

Thomas Markle Sr. rejected the accusations in an interview with the Daily Mail, calling them “sick lies.”

He said he was shocked and hurt by the allegations made by his son and insisted that he had never possessed or downloaded such material.

“I could never do what I’m being accused of,” he said.

Thomas Markle Sr. previously lived in the Philippines but has since returned to the United States for medical treatment following serious health problems.

His relationship with Meghan has been strained since before her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018.

The latest allegations have brought renewed attention to that family estrangement, although Meghan’s statement focused primarily on the safety of children and the need for a thorough investigation.

As Philippine authorities continue examining the claims, no criminal conviction or judicial finding establishing the allegations against Thomas Markle Sr. has been reported.